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Irony of corruption
Corruption has become so pervasive and brazen. Masusuka ka na (you would puke),” moaned the mayor of Dumaguete City, Felipe Remollo, at the convening Thursday of a coalition of over a hundred chiefs of local government units calling for good governance and an end to corruption at all levels of government starting within their own turfs. The coalition was sparked by Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, a former Philippine National Police official who, in a virtual speech delivered during a PNP flag-raising ceremony last July, said he was “shocked” by the gargantuan increase in the country’s national debt to nearly P14 trillion. Said Magalong: “When President Duterte started his administration, our national debt was at P5.7 trillion, accumulated over the past decades. In just seven years, our national debt increased by 142 percent; we’re now at P13.86 trillion (actually P14.10 trillion, as reported by the Bureau of the Treasury in May 2023).” He quoted then-NEDA Secretary Karl Chua as saying that the country’s ability to pay the national debt is dependent on “‘our ability to manage financial leakages.’ And so I ask, ano ba yung financial leakages (what are financial leakages)? And Sec. Chua replied, ‘ang financial leakage na sinasabi ko (that I’m telling you), a big chunk of that is attributed to corruption.’” Beyond shock, he said he was also alarmed that none of the members of Congress then and now seemed to be concerned enough to “raise hell” about the country’s tremendously rising national debt. Interviewed over local television, he said he had spoken with contractors whom he asked, “Assuming I take cuts from infrastructure projects, how much will my take be? Their answer? From 10 percent to as much as 20, 25 percent — it’s up to the mayors and lawmakers to decide how much.” Bids and awards committee members, among others, also receive commissions, thus only about 45-50 percent is left for the contractor to do the project, he learned. If the project is worth, say P100, they’ll settle for from P42.50 to P55, including their profit, so they’ll have no choice but to make sub-standard projects. Having spent 38 years of exemplary service in the Philippine National Police, retired in 2016 as Deputy Chief of Operations with a total of 166 medals to his name, including the Distinguished Conduct Star, Distinguished Service Star, and PNP Gold Cross for combat and law enforcement achievements, he said: “We in the uniformed service are willing to give up a reasonable percentage of our pension to help the national government address this huge deficit, to address this big national debt; but we have yet to hear from our legislators that they too are willing to give up their pork barrel. Let’s wait and see what our brave legislators have to say.” In the interest of objectivity, it should be said here that Baguio, in two instances, was the subject of a Commission on Audit flag-down. One instance involved Magalong’s admission that rules were eased by City Hall in the purchase of food for city residents and disinfectant at the height of the Luzon lockdown during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021. He said, however, that all the lockdown expenses were properly accounted for. CoA likewise flagged the city government on allegations that it had diversified funds to complete an infrastructure project. City Administrator Bonifacio Dela Peña maintained that the local government used the DPWH fund for its intended purpose, explaining that city hall only had a P341-million budget for a Convergence Center and it needed P50 million more to complete the project. “The word ‘misuse’ is not true. The fund was well-audited and it went to where it was allotted,” said Dela Peña. It is heartening to see that a cry in the wilderness sparks action among mayors. Theirs is a cause worthy of support by all sectors, including business and the citizenry, and we wish them all the luck in what is certain to be “an uphill climb” of sincerity and political will. The post Irony of corruption appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Fans in frenzy as Beyoncé kicks off concert tour
Ecstatic Beyoncé fans sang and danced in feverish excitement in Stockholm Wednesday as the superstar kicked off her first solo tour in seven years with a futuristic spectacle featuring a lunar rover, an airborne horse, and wall-to-wall rhinestones. Hours before the doors opened hundreds of people were thronging outside the stadium, including some who had traveled halfway around the world to catch the show, anxious to see the global music icon -- one of the world's best-selling artists. Once the concert was about to begin, the tens of thousands of fans in the 60,000-capacity Friends Arena -- filled to the brim -- erupted in cheers as their "queen" emerged on stage. "Just want to say: Y'all make me so happy," Beyoncé said as the concert began. "I see familiar faces, people that flew from very, very far to come see the first show tonight," she told the audience at the outset of the three-hour space and science fiction-themed show. The show features Beyoncé performing atop a lunar vehicle, playing the role of a news anchor while dressed as a queen bee, and suspended above the crowd as she sits on a model horse completely covered in sparkling rhinestones. "This was another level. Amazing, I can't wait for the rest of the tour," Abdul Ibraimoh, a 33-year-old artist manager from London, told AFP after the show. "There was a lot of anticipation for what she was going to do, and yes I'm speechless, it was just incredible," Shane Barkey, a 31-year-old radio host from Ireland, said. Beyoncé, who has a record 32 Grammy awards; is in the top 10 biggest-grossing female artists. She is also a fashion icon, with designers queueing up for her attention. Many of the fans in Stockholm sported cowboy hats and rhinestones, mimicking the look of the performer's outfit in the ads announcing the 57-stop European and North American tour. Julie Vargas, who flew in from Houston, Texas -- Beyoncé's hometown -- confessed to having a "shrine" dedicated to the star at home. "I don't want any spoilers, I wanted to be the first to see it and take the news back to H-town baby!" the 38-year-old surgical technologist told AFP as she waited in line in the early afternoon. The "Renaissance World Tour", announced in February after being teased last autumn, is the star's first solo tour since 2016. Tickets sold out so quickly for the opening show that tour organizers added a second concert at the same venue for Thursday. From there, she goes to Brussels this weekend. The tour, which continues until September, is expected to earn the international artist nearly $2.1 billion, according to business magazine Forbes. She is already a multi-millionaire. "We love Beyoncé, she's the queen, that's why we are here of course," 36-year-old artist Kasher Bloom from Riga told AFP. "Beyoncé is the queen! Our mother, everything! I would do anything for her," Jarra Jatta, a 21-year-old fan from Helsingborg in southern Sweden. In February, Beyoncé made history by becoming the most successful artist in the history of the Grammys, surpassing the late classical conductor Georg Solti's long-standing record of 31 lifetime trophies. But despite winning another four Grammys, fans were disappointed that she missed out on the award for album of the year for her seventh studio album, the house-tinged "Renaissance". The 16-song 2022 album was an instant hit and earned wide praise for its deep ambition. Born Beyoncé Giselle Knowles, the now-41-year-old has been in the upper echelons of pop music since her teenage years. She initially rose to fame as part of Destiny's Child -- whose smash hits included "Survivor" and "Say My Name" -- before embarking on a wildly successful solo career. From setting the standard for the overnight album drop to delivering her earth-shattering "Homecoming" show at Coachella in 2018, Beyoncé has long bucked the industry's conventional wisdom. She is simultaneously one of music's most private and most watched stars. Her paradigm-shifting 2016 album "Lemonade," which emphasized Black womanhood against the backdrop of America's heritage of slavery and culture of oppression, remains one of the most venerated musical projects in recent memory. Then she dropped the critically acclaimed song "Black Parade" in June 2020, amid nationwide protests ignited by the murder of an unarmed Black man, George Floyd, at the hands of a white police officer. The post Fans in frenzy as Beyoncé kicks off concert tour appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
MVP Group dominates 20th Philippine Quill Awards
It was a triumphant night for the MVP Group of Companies, encompassing leading entities such as Light Rail Manila Corp., Manila Electric Co., Maynilad Water Services Inc., PLDT, Smart Communications Inc., Makati Medical Center, Maya, Metro Pacific Dumaguete Water Services Inc., Metro Pacific Tollways South Management Corp., Metro Pacific Investments Corp., Meralco – One Meralco Foundation and Metro Pacific Investments Foundation, as its member companies secured a staggering total of 87 awards at the 20th Philippine Quill Awards, organized by the International Association of Business Communicators......»»
NET25 show ‘Open for Business’ holds first awards ceremony
Last Thursday, Jan. 25,.....»»
BARMM’s investment hubs get governance citations
Members of the Bangsamoro business sector were elated with the special awards for efficiency bestowed upon the local governments in the region's two new investment hubs on Thursday, recognizing the accomplishments as key factors that can enhance the investment potentials of both areas......»»
Harvard OPM holds inaugural Leadership Awards
The Owner/President Management Program of Harvard Business School has given out its first Leadership Awards to individuals that have made substantial contributions to the Philippines......»»
Asticom CEO honored at 2023 TITAN Women in Business Awards
Asticom CEO honored at 2023 TITAN Women in Business Awards.....»»
SEC chairperson named first-ever Public Sector Innovator in Mansmith Innovation Awards
Mr. Aquino was recognized alongside five other top innovators for their contributions in microlending, product innovation in food supplements, product innovation as a nongovernmental organization, online stock trading, and innovative business model during the awarding ceremony held on November 17 at The Podium in Mandaluyong City......»»
Pag-IBIG wins 3 international Gold Stevie Awards
Pag-IBIG Fund’s service innovations using digital and social media, publication to communicate its 40-year legacy, and excellence in leadership won three gold awards during the recently held International Business (Stevie) Awards in Rome, Italy and the Stevie Awards for Women in Business in New York City......»»
COMELEC Chairman Garcia, BIR Commissioner Lumagui, Shawarma Shack Group among winners at 6th Asia Leaders Awards
The Asia Leaders Awards, dedicated to recognizing outstanding business leaders navigating challenges with unwavering determination, and who are true nation builders, highlighted Walther Buenavista's strategic leadership that has propelled Shawarma Shack Group to the top of the franchising sector......»»
STAR dominates EJAP Awards
The Philippine STAR has been named “Business News Source of the Year” in the 32nd Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines’ Business Journalism Awards, where it also won recognition in nearly all categories......»»
Aboitiz Land gets Circle of Excellence Award for Diversity Company of the Year at the Asia CEO Awards
Aboitiz Land, the real estate arm of the Aboitiz group, is among those honored with the prestigious Circle of Excellence Award under the Diversity Company of the Year category at the Asia CEO Awards held at the Manila Marriott Hotel on 24 October 2023. This recognition highlights the company’s steadfast commitment to promoting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in every aspect of its culture. “Aboitiz Land’s dedication to diversity and inclusion extends far beyond our organization’s borders. We strive to create a positive influence not only within our team, but also among the vecinos we serve and the local communities surrounding our projects,” David Rafael, CEO and president of Aboitiz Land said. Fostering Inclusivity: A Closer Look at Aboitiz Land’s DE&I Program What sets Aboitiz Land’s DE&I program apart is its holistic approach, addressing each stage of the employee journey to strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion. Here are some key features of Aboitiz Land’s DE&I program: The organization adopts flexible educational and geographical hiring requirements, prioritizing relevant professional experience over strict educational attainment. The consanguinity policy within the organization is relaxed, allowing relatives of employees to pursue careers within the company. A hybrid work setup is implemented, providing flexibility and saving time and resources for employees. Transparent communication is encouraged, fostering trust and openness within the organization. Employee feedback is collected regularly through channels like Amara, a virtual employee experience champion. Aboitiz Land promotes a multigenerational leadership approach and maintains a healthy gender balance with a 45:55 male-to-female employee ratio. They also ensure LGBTQIA+ representation across all levels of the company. The organization offers flexible benefits through the FlexBen program, allowing employees to customize their benefit packages based on individual needs. Expanded healthcare coverage includes provisions for child dependents, common-law and same-gender partners. Additionally, government benefits are extended to cover a wider range of family situations. Development opportunities are available to all team members, ensuring that individual growth is not limited to specific segments. Growth partnerships and curated learning solutions are provided to facilitate skill development. Aboitiz Land’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion program has led to elevated levels of employee satisfaction and engagement. This, in turn, fosters a productive workforce that is driven to consistently enhance performance, ultimately delivering better products and services. The Asia CEO Awards honors business excellence in the Philippines and is the largest event of its kind in Southeast Asia. The post Aboitiz Land gets Circle of Excellence Award for Diversity Company of the Year at the Asia CEO Awards appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Meralco shines with int’l awards
The Manila Electric Company, or Meralco, the country’s largest distribution utility has emerged as a beacon of excellence on the global stage as it bagged multiple accolades at the recently concluded 2023 International Business Awards. At the prestigious awards ceremony held in Rome, Italy, on 13 October, Meralco was feted with a total of eight Stevies — four Gold and four Bronze awards, for its transformative programs centered on sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Embedding sustainability Recognizing the company’s dedication to embedding sustainability at the core of its strategy and operations, Meralco was the sole recipient of the Gold Stevie under the “Sustainability Leadership Award in Asia, Australia and New Zealand” category. Also taking home Gold Stevies were Meralco first vice president and chief sustainability officer Raymond B. Ravelo and Meralco vice president and chief corporate social responsibility officer Jeffrey O. Tarayao, who were named “Sustainability Hero of the Year in Asia, Australia and New Zealand” and “Thought Leader of the Year,” respectively. Ravelo was cited for his leadership of Meralco’s sustainability agenda. Tarayao, who is also president of One Meralco Foundation, was recognized for combining thought leadership with practical solutions. Compelling video Another Gold Stevie was awarded to “Meralco’s Spectrum on Solar Rooftop Installations: The Gift that Keeps on Giving,” a three-minute compelling video on sustainability and the environment underscoring the myriad benefits of investing in solar power. OMF’s community development endeavors also basked in the international spotlight after it earned for the company three Bronze Stevies for its corporate social responsibility initiatives. These were the community energization project “Electrification for Development: Improving the Lives of LastMile Filipinos” that highlighted the transformative power of electricity in unserved and underserved communities across the archipelago; the “One for Trees: Empowering People and Communities to Nurture Our Forest, a practical approach to addressing climate change; and the “Powering-Up Communities During the Pandemic” proactive communications campaign that braved the challenges of community electrification during the global crisis. Completing Meralco’s haul this year was the Bronze Stevie for #Mbrace, the company’s diversity and inclusion program advancing gender balance and inclusivity within the workplace. Also known as “the International Stevies,” the prestigious International Business Awards are the world’s premier business awards honoring achievements and positive contributions of companies and working professionals worldwide. Since its launch in 2002, the Stevie has become one of the most coveted prizes globally. The post Meralco shines with int’l awards appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
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......»»
Balanced role as watchdog
Dear Editor, It is not for naught that the media carries power that can equal the world’s most powerful person and entity. Hence, the media should partner with the government to uplift its own country, not devils or wolves, crocs and vultures in politics and “public service,” and private corporations. You may criticize the government but don’t consider or cause its downfall unless the one on top of it is a devil. BBM is far from being one, different from past unrepentant evil rulers in history who committed crimes against humanity. Be fair and on track in trying to serve the country by criticizing. Should you fail in being the right media (in character) and playing your task/role as a watchdog for the government, you only have yourself to blame and criticize first, bitterly and unforgivingly. The best support we, the media, can give any president of our own country is an upright, apolitical, and courageous soul to stand on the truth by fighting for the truth and giving voice to the voiceless boldly. “Fearless reporting delivered to the people” is not only reporting the truth. It reports the truth from an upright heart to enlighten people and crush evils. Stop being carried away and hoodwinked by “awards,” popularity surveys, and mass viewership or readership. Cease mouthing empty slogans. Do right, not lip service. Editorials and opinions must be crafted with the forcefulness of mission, courage, and clarity of what they are and where they are coming from — untainted convictions that are free from politics and personal, vested interests — to fight for and uphold justice, equity, and righteousness — and to beat corruption, deceits, criminalities and all sorts of malefactions and transgressions, perpetrated by authorities no less, in connivance with the avaricious in society. Such is the only way for the media to “balance” its role as a watchdog to bless its citizenry and be helpful in nation-building. Don’t cower. Don’t cover. The government is already inherently powerful. Thus, it behooves the media to exercise its equally intrinsic sovereign rights and authority that can and should equal those of the crooks, thugs, or anybody in the halls of power — for the good of all. “But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-ending stream.” — Amos 5:24 In the electricity system, there is what we call ACDC, which, when spelled out, means Alternating Current (by Nicola Tesla and George Westinghouse) and Direct Current (by Thomas Edison). The media, for its part, has its own ACDC — Attack and Collect, Defend and Collect. This is not an understatement, nor a sweeping one, for I refer only to those who are members of the media’s elite club - likewise called ACDC (Anti-Christ, Devil-Cohorts). Alas! Crusading media. If you are not a part of it, you have no business being a part of the media. Face it. Reni M. Valenzuela renivalenzuelaletters@yahoo.com The post Balanced role as watchdog appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Fil-Am director ready to take on Hollywood with ‘sweeping drama’
While the feverish Hollywood actors’ strike is still ongoing, Filipino-American filmmaker Gerard Pizarro is undaunted. The lawyer-turned-director is currently scouting cast members in the Philippines and LA for his ambitious Hollywood limited television series called Mt. Samat. Pizarro may not be a household name, but the passionate Fil-Am director has been winning awards in the American film circuit for a decade now. Pizzaro’s Mt. Samat has been described as a “sweeping drama of an orphan who rose to riches and wealth amidst time-worn wars and generational family feuds.” Mount Samat, also known as the Dambana ng Kagitingan, is a shrine located in Pilar, Bataan built to honor the gallantry of Filipino and American soldiers who fought against the Japanese army during World War II. But Pizzaro’s Mt. Samat will be based on the 2021 biographical novel The Man Behind the Uniform, penned by his own father, Tony Deleon Pizarro. The inspiring story will focus on Pizzaro’s father pursuing the American Dream beginning in Bataan, in the midst of war. It is undoubtedly a big project, as the rags-to-riches story will be backdropped by historical events — a period drama that aims to cast the best Filipino actors, as well as actors from Hollywood. Pizzaro, who said his favorite actor is Sean Penn, studied for four years at the American Conservatory Theater. “And I think my training as a lawyer, we did a lot of listening and observing, we watched,” so he intends to use those skills in casting and directing his film. Big marketplace Mt. Samat will be pitched at the American Film Market on 31 October. The AFM is an eight-day film industry event held each year at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel. It’s a big marketplace for the film business, with more than 7,000 participants from 70 countries who attend to network, sell, finance and acquire films. [caption id="attachment_200914" align="aligncenter" width="1694"] ‘BLOOD on Canvas,’ Pizarro’s 2013 drama-thriller film, bagged awards at various film festivals. | PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF Pizarro Creatives[/caption] Even with Mt. Samat set to be pitched at the AFM to attract film buyers, it is currently being produced with a pilot episode that will open in 1941 with the Japanese invasion of the Philippines. It will then unfold into a dramatic family saga, following the older Pizzaro’s experiences in Bataan before migrating to the United States in 1959 and his struggles as an immigrant before finding success. Aside from the American Conservatory Theater, Pizarro also obtained training from the San Francisco Film School and the USC School of Cinematic Arts. His 2013 drama-thriller Blood on Canvas, starring Kristen Doute and Stephen DeWitt White, bagged awards at various festivals, including Best Feature at the Michigan Film Awards and Best Thriller at the Honolulu Film Festival, and recognition at the Golden Ace Awards and Las Vegas Festival. The post Fil-Am director ready to take on Hollywood with ‘sweeping drama’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Meralco receives 3 Golden Arrow awards for outstanding good governance
Recognizing its remarkable corporate governance practices, the Manila Electric Company has once again received a three-arrow recognition from the Institute of Corporate Directors during the Golden Arrow Awards held on 28 September. The prestigious accolade came as a result of Meralco’s outstanding performance in the 2022 ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard assessment, reflecting the company’s conformance with the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission’s Code of Corporate Governance for Publicly-Listed Companies, as well as internationally recommended corporate governance practices as espoused by the ACGS. ACGS is an evaluation tool developed by the ASEAN Capital Markets Forum to assess the governance framework of publicly listed companies in the region. This assessment covers various aspects, including board responsibilities, shareholder rights, disclosure and transparency, and stakeholder management. This recognition serves as a testament to the company’s unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance. By excelling in the ACGS assessment, Meralco has demonstrated its commitment to operating with integrity and safeguarding the interests of its shareholders and stakeholders. Through the award, Meralco highlights the importance of good corporate governance in today’s business environment. It serves as a reminder to all publicly listed companies that adherence to rigorous corporate governance standards is essential to ensure sustainable success and foster good relationships among investors, customers, and the community they serve. The post Meralco receives 3 Golden Arrow awards for outstanding good governance appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Meralco receives 3-Golden Arrow Award for Outstanding Corporate Governance
Recognizing its remarkable corporate governance practices, the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) has once again received a three-arrow recognition from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD) during the Golden Arrow Awards held on 28 September 2023. The prestigious accolade came as a result of Meralco’s outstanding performance in the 2022 ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) assessment, reflecting the company’s conformance with the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission’s Code of Corporate Governance for Publicly-Listed Companies, as well as internationally recommended corporate governance practices as espoused by the ACGS. ACGS is an evaluation tool developed by the ASEAN Capital Markets Forum to assess the governance framework of publicly listed companies in the region. This assessment covers various aspects including board responsibilities, shareholder rights, disclosure and transparency, and stakeholder management. This recognition serves as a testament to the company's unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards of corporate governance. By excelling in the ACGS assessment, Meralco has demonstrated its commitment to operating with integrity and safeguarding the interests of its shareholders and stakeholders. Through the award, Meralco highlights the importance of good corporate governance in today’s business environment. It serves as a reminder to all publicly listed companies that adherence to rigorous corporate governance standards is essential to ensure sustainable success and to foster a good relationship among investors, customers, and the community that they serve. The post Meralco receives 3-Golden Arrow Award for Outstanding Corporate Governance appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
The joy of eating
There is almost always a restaurant opening in the metropolis — either to excite the taste buds or simply elevate the Filipino dining experience. Yes, from Filipino dishes to American-Italian fare and specialty steakhouse, there will always be something for everyone to discover, relish and enjoy. LOCAVORE AT ESTANCIA MALL A cozy, contemporary space ensconced inside the Estancia Mall in Pasig City, Locavore is given true Filipino touches with its warm woods, rattan chairs, rustic pendant lights and an expansive glass window that provides an exceptional view of the surrounding environs. [caption id="attachment_192645" align="aligncenter" width="771"] OLIVE Garden’s Herb Roasted Chicken.[/caption] Opened last May, Locavore at Estancia Mall is the seventh branch of the restaurant, which catapulted to prominence in the culinary arena in 2014 after it opened its first branch at Brixton Barrio Kapitolyo, also in Pasig City. It then opened at Forbestown in Taguig City, Valero Street in Makati City, S’Maison in Pasay City, Eastwood Mall in Quezon City and SM City Bacoor. With the talented chef Mikel Zaguirre and his team at the helm, Locavore takes the homey heartwarming flavors of Filipino cooking gives a more sophisticated interpretation. And with the newly opened branch comes an expanded menu and new dishes exclusively in the Estancia outlet. For starters, have the crisp BBM or Bagnet, Buro and Mustasa — a platter filled with thinly sliced, crispy pork bagnet chips that you wrap in mustasa leaves (Samgyup style) seasoned with burong (pickled) hipon and burong mangga with gochugaru (Korean chili flakes). Follow it up with Bistek Pintxos, toasted bread decked with bistek-style beef tenderloin, grilled quesong puti, truffle aioli and red onions. [caption id="attachment_192646" align="aligncenter" width="525"] OLIVE Garden’s Purple White Cocktail.[/caption] “The new dishes are presented on slate plates because they are mostly bar chows,” says Alejandro Pahan Jr., operations manager. “That’s our new concept. We were thinking of madaling kainin (easy to eat) and something fun. Because samgyup is trending, we came up with pintxos.” The resto also has Bulalo Pintxos, roasted bone marrow with pickled labanos and pares jam; Yakitori Platter, grilled skewered chicken wings, chicken thigh meat, gizzard and liver served with annatto aioli, tocino butter, miso butter and spiced suka; Bagnet Chips, housemade bagnet chips served with spiced vinegar; and Inasalitos, inasal chicken with salsa, labuyo aioli served in lumpia taco shell. All these dishes are paired with seven new signature cocktail drinks, crafted by its in-house mixologist. Pahan says the new refreshing drinks heavily relies on the food being served at the restaurant. They complement the taste of the meals. Locavore serves alcohol and spirits. The drinks include Hardin, a hybrid between gin tonic and Tom Collins, with tonic water and botanicals and floral notes like blue pea and elderflower (which has a similar taste notes of lychee), garnished with rosemary and black pepper; Kinilig, a combo of Disaronno amaretto, honey, lemon juice and rum, with rice paper art design on top; Diwata, a blend of Bombay Sapphire gin with Giffard Lychee liqueur, sugar syrup and lemon juice, dressed with basil sprig and forget me not flower; and Antibayotiko, a whiskey-based mix of bourbon, ginger liqueur, honey and lemon juice. Locavore at Estancia Mall has a seating capacity of 120 people and targets bar goers in the area. It’s open until 1 a.m. from Wednesday to Saturday. The rest of the week, it follows the mall hours. OLIVE GARDEN AT THE VERVE A visit to the newly opened third branch of Olive Garden at The Verve in BGC, Taguig City, is a journey of discovery into a world of delicious and affordable pasta, bread, salad, chicken and pizza sensibilities. The menu is broad and touches base with all the departments of classic Italian-American fare. Upon arrival, diners are swiftly delivered a basket of freshly baked breadsticks, which are widely popular in all 900 Olive Garden stores all over the world, including the Philippines. They are buttery, a bit garlicky, moist and chewy. The unlimited breadsticks, including the never-ending soups and salads, come free with every order of an entrée. What a treat! [caption id="attachment_192647" align="aligncenter" width="525"] LOCAVORE’S BBM (Bagnet, Buro, Mustasa).[/caption] The refreshing salad is a merry mix of healthy greens, tomatoes and olives with a light house dressing, while the soup selection includes Pasta E Fagioli, Zuppa Toscana, Minestrone and Chicken & Gnocchi. Olive Garden first opened at the Mall of Asia on 12 September 2022 and at Glorietta 3 in Makati City on 9 January 2023. “It is, more or less, the same menu that we have for our first branch in MOA and also the same menu all over the United States,” Rechele Tiongson, chief operating officer of The Bistro Group, the company responsible for bringing in Olive Garden which was founded in 1982 in Orlando, Florida. “We never changed anything aside from modifying some of the portions that would fit the Filipino market, but the taste and flavor are the same. We use the finest ingredients like imported cheeses.” She adds: “Just to be clear, we did not reduce the portions but we introduce the smaller ones like solo version for those will smaller appetites. The big portions remain the same.” Browsing the menu uncovers more inviting dishes, such as the signature item, Tour of Italy (a huge platter of everything good — Chicken Parmigiana, Lasagna Classico and Fettucino Alfredo pasta), Amazing Alfredos (made from scratch using imported cheeses, not just heavy cream) and an Italian classic, Shrimp Scampi. Just recently, four new dishes were introduced — Mediterranean Chicken, Chicken Tuscany, Roasted Herb Chicken and Italian Braised Short Ribs, all served with a choice of mashed potato or steamed rice. “We are happy with the response of the public to Olive Garden,” shares Tiongson. “It was extremely unexpected when we first opened in MOA. We were busy for the next six months of the restaurant. The queue was really long. People had to wait for 30 to 45 minutes, which we felt bad for our customers, but that was how they responded to the first opening of Olive Garden in the Philippines.” Olive Garden’s vibe is casual, light and bright yet it is warm and comforting with olive green accents. The design of the interiors is an allusion to the Italian countryside through earth tones and natural textures. It can accommodate 150 people. Olive Garden at The Verve in BGC is open from Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. [caption id="attachment_192648" align="aligncenter" width="525"] LOCAVORE’S Sizzling Sinigang.[/caption] ASTON’S SPECIALITIES AT ARCOVIA Tron Ng, Astons business development executive based in Singapore, flew to Manila last, 22 September, in time for the opening of the third branch of Astons Specialities, a Singapore-based restaurant chain renowned for serving affordable steaks and Western cuisine, at Arcovia City in Pasig City. Astons is a casual steakhouse which first opened in the Philippines last year on the 4/F of Mega Atrium in SM Megamall. The second branch was at Trinoma Mall in Quezon City early this year. Silver Lush Food Corporation brought in the Singapore brand to satisfy the cravings of steak lovers and those who enjoy more seafood, chicken, sausages, burgers and pasta dishes. “This is our third outlet in the Philippines in a span of 16 months,” says Ng. “We have been around since 2005 when it was founded by Aston Soon. We started as a very small coffeeshop in Singapore. Eventually, we managed to draw a lot of attention because we offer quality food at affordable prices.” He adds: “Within a year, we opened our own restaurant and we continue to grow and expand. We have introduced many different brands under Astons and we have over 40 restaurants only in Singapore alone.” [caption id="attachment_192649" align="aligncenter" width="525"] OLIVE Garden Pasta Twirl. (From left) Zachary Reams of Darden Int’l Learning and Development partner; Marc Buencamino, Fort Bonifacio Development Corporation operations director; RC Tiongson, The Bistro Group chief operating officer; Lourdes Reyes, FBDC chief financial officer; and Lisa Ronquillo-Along, The Bistro Group chief marketing officer.[/caption] Aside from the Philippines, Aston Specialities can also be found in Myanmar and Malaysia. It was also recognized by the AsiaOne’s People Choice Awards and Asian Enterprise Brand Awards for its service and offerings. “I believe Astons will do well in the Philippines because the locals lean more on western food,” Ng says. Of course, the piece de resistance of Astons revolves around its steaks and meat, as it should be. The different cuts of meat from prime sirloin and New York strip to prime ribeye steak do not disappoint. Each has wonderful marbling with the juiciness of the meat, coating your tongue with every bite. The perfect grill marks immediately excite one’s appetite and invite you to dig in with your own side dishes — potatoes (baked, mashed, wedges or fries), Mexican nachos (chicken or beef) or Mac & Cheese. Other items on the menu are also a treat, such as Surf & Turf and Chargrilled Salmon Fillet, Grilled Porkchops and Honey Bourbon Ribs. Cocktail drinks are also aplenty — Piña Colada, Tequila Sunrise, Daiquiri, Orange Margarita and Sangria, to name some. With its industrial chandelier, brick accents and dark wood touches, the place takes on the air of an upscale roadhouse, but softened by the muted walls and expansive glass windows. Astons Specialities at Arcovia City is open daily, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. All told, a trip to any of these newly opened restaurants guarantees a truly gratifying dining experience. The post The joy of eating appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Narcolepsy, cancer tipped as Medicine Prize opens Nobel week
Narcolepsy, cancer, or mRNA vaccine research could win the Nobel Medicine Prize on Monday when a week of announcements kicks off, but experts see no clear frontrunner for the Peace Prize. The awards, first handed out in 1901, were created by Swedish inventor and philanthropist Alfred Nobel in his 1895 will to celebrate those who have "conferred the greatest benefit on mankind." The Medicine Prize is first out and will be announced in Stockholm on Monday around 11:30 a.m. (0930 GMT), followed by the awards for physics on Tuesday, chemistry on Wednesday, and literature on Thursday. The Peace Prize, the most highly-anticipated Nobel and the only one announced in Oslo, will follow on Friday, before the Economics Prize rounds things off on October 9. The Medicine Prize has over the years crowned groundbreaking discoveries like the X-ray, penicillin, insulin, and DNA -- as well as now-disgraced awards for lobotomy and the insecticide DDT. Several Nobel watchers have suggested this year's prize could go to research into narcolepsy and the discovery of orexin, a neuropeptide that helps regulate sleep. It could also go to Hungarian-born Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman of the United States for research that led directly to the first mRNA vaccines to fight COVID-19, made by Pfizer and Moderna. Their discovery has already won a slew of major medicine prizes, but the Nobel committee nowadays often waits decades to bestow its laurels to ensure the research stands the test of time. "Maybe the Academy thinks it needs to look into it more, but someday they should win," predicted Annika Ostman, science reporter at Swedish public radio SR. Gene engineering and IceCube telescope But Ostman said her guess for this year was on Kevan Shokat, an American biologist who figured out how to block the KRAS cancer gene behind a third of cancers, including challenging-to-treat lung, colon, and pancreatic tumors. T-cell therapy for cancer treatment and work on the human microbiome could also be contenders, said David Pendlebury, head of the Clarivate Analytics group which identifies Nobel-worthy research. "There are more people deserving of a Nobel Prize than there are Nobels to go around," he told AFP. Lars Brostrom, Ostman's colleague at SR, singled out two American biologists, Stanislas Leibler, and Michael Elowitz, for their work on synthetic gene circuits which established the field of synthetic biology. It enables scientists to redesign organisms by engineering them to have new abilities. But Brostrom noted the field could be seen as controversial, raising "ethical questions about where to draw the line in creating life". For the Physics Prize, twisted graphene or the IceCube Neutrino Observatory in Antarctica were seen as possible winners, as well as the development of high-density data storage in the field of spintronics. Peace Prize to Iranian women? For Wednesday's Chemistry Prize, Pendlebury suggested next-generation DNA sequencing could get the nod, or research into how to target and deliver drugs to genes. Brostrom said he would love to see it go to US-based chemist Omar Yaghi for his work into porous materials known as MOFs, which can absorb poisonous gases or harvest water from desert air, and is an "important field for the future" with enormous potential for the environment. Criticism over a lack of gender and geographical diversity has plagued the Nobels over the years. US-based men have dominated the science fields, while women account for just six percent of overall laureates -- something the various award committees insist they are addressing. Among the names making the rounds for Thursday's Literature Prize are Russian author and outspoken Putin critic Lyudmila Ulitskaya, Chinese avant-garde writer Can Xue, British author Salman Rushdie, Caribbean-American writer Jamaica Kincaid and Norwegian playwright Jon Fosse. But for the Peace Prize, experts have been scratching their heads over possible winners, as conflicts rage around the globe. Some have pointed to the Iranian women protesting since the death in custody a year ago of Mahsa Amini, arrested for violating Iran's strict dress code imposed on women. Others suggest organizations documenting war crimes in Ukraine, or the International Criminal Court, which could one day be called upon to judge them. "I think that climate change is a really good focus for the Peace Prize this year," Dan Smith, the head of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, told AFP after a year of extreme weather around the world. For the Economics Prize, research on income and wealth inequality could be honored. Recent winners of the Nobel Medicine Prize Here is a list of the winners of the Nobel Medicine Prize in the past 10 years: 2022: Swedish paleogeneticist Svante Paabo for his discoveries on the genomes of extinct hominins and human evolution. 2021: US duo David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian for discoveries on human receptors responsible for our ability to sense temperature and touch. 2020: Americans Harvey Alter and Charles Rice, together with Briton Michael Houghton, for the discovery of the Hepatitis C virus, leading to the development of sensitive blood tests and antiviral drugs. 2019: William Kaelin and Gregg Semenza of the US and Britain's Peter Ratcliffe for establishing the basis of our understanding of how cells react and adapt to different oxygen levels. 2018: Immunologists James Allison of the US and Tasuku Honjo of Japan, for figuring out how to release the immune system's brakes to allow it to attack cancer cells more efficiently. 2017: US geneticists Jeffrey Hall, Michael Rosbash, and Michael Young for their discoveries on the internal biological clock that governs the wake-sleep cycles of most living things. 2016: Yoshinori Ohsumi of Japan for his work on autophagy -- a process whereby cells "eat themselves" -- which when disrupted can cause Parkinson's and diabetes. 2015: William Campbell, an Irish-US citizen, Satoshi Omura of Japan, and Tu Youyou of China for unlocking treatments for malaria and roundworm. 2014: American-born Briton John O'Keefe, May-Britt Moser, and Edvard I. Moser of Norway for discovering how the brain navigates with an "inner GPS". 2013: Thomas C. Sudhof, a US citizen born in Germany, and James E. Rothman and Randy W. Schekman of the US for work on how the cell organizes its transport system. The post Narcolepsy, cancer tipped as Medicine Prize opens Nobel week appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»