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[OPINION] Education for life: Weaving ethics in all subject areas
By making ethical reflection a cornerstone of our educational system, we foster a generation capable not only of doing things well, but of doing the right thing.....»»
Real-life BFFs Jerald and Nicco fulfill dream of working together on screen
The first time they met was in 2007 through Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Tanghalang Pilipino. ‘Sabay kaming humiga sa carpet ng CCP kahit bawal dun,’ recounted Nicco. ‘We were just dreaming about the things we are doing now (acting). We would eat together in a cafeteria na hati kami ng ulam lang. We really started.’.....»»
Real-life BFFs Jerald and Nicco fulfilln dream of working together on screen
The first time they met was in 2007 through Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Tanghalang Pilipino. ‘Sabay kaming humiga sa carpet ng CCP kahit bawal dun,’ recounted Nicco. ‘We were just dreaming about the things we are doing now (acting). We would eat together in a cafeteria na hati kami ng ulam lang. We really started.’.....»»
NICE, Ganda! NICE, SARAP! McDonald’s comes out with oh-so-satisfying Chicken McDo
Summary: McDonald’s Introduces Bigger, Juicier, and Crispier Chicken McDo McDonald’s has unveiled an enhanced version of its beloved Chicken McDo, promising a more satisfying and flavorful experience for chicken enthusiasts. The new and improved Chicken McDo boasts larger and juicier cuts, coupled with a revamped breading process that results in a crispier and flakier skin. This upgrade aims to elevate the dining experience, ensuring that every bite is succulent and fulfilling. In addition to the enhanced chicken offering, McDonald’s is also introducing value-packed meal options to cater to different preferences. Customers can indulge in the 1pc Chicken McDo with DOUBLE Rice for a hearty and filling meal, or opt for the 1pc Chicken McDo with McFloat for a refreshing accompaniment. The reimagined Chicken McDo has garnered praise from renowned personality Vice Ganda, who has expressed her delight with the improvements. McDonald’s has made the new Chicken McDo available for dine-in, take-out, drive-thru, and delivery, ensuring that customers can savor its delectable taste at their convenience. For those eager to explore more exciting deals and promotions related to the Chicken McDo, McDonald’s encourages users to download the McDonald’s App and McDelivery App, and stay updated on social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook. Overall, McDonald’s Chicken McDo aims to satisfy cravings with its bigger, juicier, and crispier appeal, offering a delectable chicken experience that can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere......»»
Total FC gunning for championship in Thailand tourney
Fresh from its successful campaign in the Philippine Youth Football League (YFL), the Under-13 team of Total Football Club (FC) aims for a bigger prize as it guns for the title in the Bangkok International Supercup 2023 on December 2-3......»»
Bigger, better IM 70.3 Puerto Princesa up
The IRONMAN 70.3 Puerto Princesa aims to surpass the success of its inaugural staging in Palawan last year in terms of participation and impact with its second edition on Nov. 12 serving as host to the Asia TriClub and Relay Championship......»»
DoF: ESG bond deals hit $3.55B
The government has funded green and social projects through the issuance of bonds amounting to $3.55 billion or P195.64 billion from March 2022 to January this year, resulting in bigger areas of replanted forestland and more flood-safe communities and benefiting agricultural entrepreneurs and students with tertiary education. The Sustainability Bond Allocation and Impact Report released Monday by the Department of Finance shows the total fund consisted of four bond transactions dedicated to environment, social and governance or ESG projects. For last year’s bond issuances, the government raised $1 billion in March, 70.1 billion Japanese yen in April, and $750 million in October. In January this year, it raised $1.25 billion. Proceeds from the bonds were used to either fully or partially finance and refinance four groups of projects by various government agencies from 2020 to 2022. DENR’s planting, marine program First, the planting and marine program by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources expanded greenery in forestland spanning 45,947.44 hectares and preserved plants in 191,081 hectares last year. Meanwhile, 244 areas covering 7.73 million hectares of terrestrial, marine, coastal, caves, and wetlands have been protected against biodiversity destruction. The P10.1-billion program provided jobs to 1,868 Filipinos this year from 1,808 in 2020 and financial aid to 68 groups from 25. Moving forward, the Marcos administration aims to boost production of bamboo and indigenous tree species on 3,565 hectares of land. Second, the flood management projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways along the country’s major rivers and river basins increased to 2,088 projects last year from 2,037 in 2020. These included floodways, dikes, water impounding structures and dredging works. The bond proceeds allocation to this program was P80.7 billion or 27 percent of the total project cost. Third, the bond proceeds enabled the Department of Labor and Employment, or DoLE, to provide business training, working capital, tools, and microinsurance to 9,112 members of the marginalized communities and displaced workers. These benefits were given under DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program, and Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced Workers or the Emergency Employment Program. Lastly, the Commission on Higher Education and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority were able to distribute funds for free tertiary education and subsidies to Filipino youth. Beneficiaries of free education in CHED-accredited local universities and colleges increased to 349,208 last year from 253,302 in 2020. The post DoF: ESG bond deals hit $3.55B appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Rewards, innovations, sustainability
Globe, the mobile leader and top digital solutions provider in the Philippines, is redefining customer appreciation with its annual G Day celebration, which brings together life-enabling tools and rewards in line with its mission to uplift the lives of Filipinos. Stretching beyond the date of 17 September (09/17) or 0917, which represents Globe’s mobile number prefix, this month-long celebration offers Globe customers digital innovations and next-gen tech experiences. Globe is also committed to using the G Day platform to reiterate its message of environmental sustainability. Throughout its G Day events and activities, Globe is championing sustainability by encouraging customers to observe eco-friendly and socially-conscious practices through small acts, from proper waste disposal and avoidance of single-use plastics to using sustainable transport through the use of Globe’s electric vehicle shuttles to and from event venues, or via carpooling. Customers are also encouraged to support advocacies such as the Hapag Movement, the Globe-led initia-tive that aims to address involuntary hunger through supplemental feeding and livelihood training. G Chance The Raffle. Globe customers can use their Rewards points to redeem raffle entries via the GlobeOne App. G Chance The Raffle can also kick-start online businesses and equip aspiring vloggers, giving them a chance to learn the ropes from industry leaders such as YouTube, Meta and TikTok. Winners will get access to premium subscriptions such as the RUSH Spark Lite e-Store Platform and Canva Pro, along with the tools they would need in their creator or business owner journey. Techies can win the latest intelligent gadgets, and for shopaholics, Globe is giving away a shopping spree at Puregold, plus GCash prizes and more. Customers can redeem entries until 30 September 2023. G Music Fest. G Music Fest, now on its fourth year, is making an even bigger comeback as a music and creator Festival. With a focus on celebrating local talent, this year will feature an all-Pinoy lineup: Urbandub, December Avenue, Lola Amour, Dilaw, PLAYERTWO, Paul Pablo, Sugarcane, The Itchyworms, Mayonnaise, Ace Ban-zuelo, Nobita, Munimuni and Syd Hartha at Circuit Grounds in Makati on 16 September. Beyond inspiration through music, the festival’s Creator Hub will encourage self-expression, learning and creativity through various art and community building activities such as live murals and painting with Drip Splash and Paint It Fun. G Creator Con. On 17 September, G Creator Con aims to unlock the creative potential of each Filipino in the music, content design and technology space. The event, to be held simultaneously at The Globe Tower, BGC Amphitheater and Globe Creator House, transforms BGC into an art and tech city powered by Globe and serves as a springboard for Globe’s Creator Culture, a long-term program combining thought-leadership, creative tech experiences and rewarding opportunities through creator project grants. Creator Talks will feature speakers from Meta, YouTube, DTI Design Center, Myx, Social Media Marketing PH, Bitskwela, and creative thought-leaders Nadine Lustre, Mela Habijan, Pat Tinguy, Eva Le Queen, Pio Dumayas of Lola Amour as panelists. G Fair. To be held on 23 to 24 September the following weekend also at the BGC Amphitheater, the art and tech pop-up market G Fair will showcase Filipino entrepreneurs and artists. With curated micro, small and medium-size enterprises and artists from MoCAF (Modern and Contemporary Art Festival), the bazaar will offer a blend of homegrown businesses and art. G Battle Zone: G Legends Cup and REV Major. Gaming enthusiasts can participate in an online nationwide Mobile Legends tournament, the G Legends Cup, on 23 to 30 September. Winners will receive cash prizes and a chance to meet, greet and even scrim with Globe’s main gaming ambassador Blacklist International. Gamers may also join the Philippines’ largest fighting game tournament, REV Major 2023, to be held at the SMX Convention Center on 30 September and 1 October. Here, the best of Pinoy gamers will play against international fighting game esports athletes. Attendees will also enjoy exclusive giveaways from Globe’s partners such as GrabCar, Move It and Foodpanda. For more information on the G Day events, download and explore the GlobeOne app or visit glbe.co/GDayEveryday. The post Rewards, innovations, sustainability appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz, GCNP spotlight corporate sustainability and SDGs
In the recently held GT Capital Thought Leadership Series at the Grand Hyatt, Manila, the Aboitiz Group emphasized the fundamentals of corporate sustainability by highlighting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and the company’s alignment with the global framework. As a board member of the UN Global Compact Network Philippines, Aboitiz Equity Ventures’ FVP and chief reputation and sustainability officer Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar presented essential strategies for enterprises to maximize their impact in fostering positive societal change and environmental stewardship. Hontiveros-Malvar cited the connection between responsible business practices and global sustainable development. The principles, communicated through voluntary reporting mechanisms, facilitate transparent communication of corporate values aligned with the 17 SDGs. “Sustainable development is a concept that focuses on meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It recognizes the interconnections between economic development, social inclusion and environmental protection,” she said. “In other words, sustainable development aims to achieve a balance between economic growth, social well-being and environmental stewardship,” she added. Hontiveros-Malvar also touched on the nation’s progress in terms of SDG integration, underscoring the necessity of coordinated efforts between government and non-government actors to optimize resource management and maximize SDG progress. “In the last few years we celebrate many businesses that have come together to create this era of action and attract others to join this global movement. May all of us continue to act responsibly, find opportunities and continue to inspire and advocate. We are united because this is bigger than just one business. We are stronger together and better together. And when we act collectively, imagine the change we can drive, and the better future we can shape as one. The possibilities are endless,” she said. Together with UN GCNP, the Aboitiz Group places utmost importance on sustainability as part of the group’s transformation into becoming the Philippines’ first “Techglomerate” by utilizing innovation, sustainable solutions and community empowerment. The post Aboitiz, GCNP spotlight corporate sustainability and SDGs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Globe Business carries MSMEs past challenges
The business solutions arm of telecom giant Globe Telecom Inc., Globe Business Enterprise, will continue to develop solutions to challenges being faced by most micro, small, and medium enterprises. Globe’s senior director Ann David said they are brainstorming for new ideas to prop up MSMEs, at Daily Tribune’s 2nd Asian Innovation Forum or AIF at the Bellevue Hotel in Muntinlupa City. “The usual problems of MSMEs are how to get new customers, logistics, digitization of business processes, and, lastly, how to keep their teams. The answer to those challenges is actually digitization,” David said. “We know that digitization efforts pose additional burdens on some MSMEs. But, indeed, the power of technology is an automatic return on investment,” she noted. Globe Business recently launched SMS Blaster or m360, a web-based, multi-channel message blaster that allows businesses to send branded messages straight to their customers. Another breakthrough that Globe Business has launched is ChatGenie, an e-commerce solution that helps businesses sell to more customers through apps they are already using. ChatGenie lets businesses manage all transactions across different channels on one platform. “There are a lot of solutions now for MSME’s challenges. These can be resolved by talking to the right partners to try out services that are free,” she pointed out. David said Globe Business offers free seminars to MSMEs, bringing in business experts and futurists who can impart solutions to the burdens of today’s business owners. “During these webinars, we showcase digital solutions that are already available and can be utilized by MSMEs. Yearly, Globe Business launches the Gift Local campaign that provides a platform for enterprises to reach a bigger market,” she said. Gift Local aims to encourage Filipino consumers to purchase gifts for family and friends from local small businesses, she added. Daily Tribune’s Asian Innovation Forum is a convergence of stakeholders that aims to help improve small businesses, introduce new ideas, open dialogues, and foster cooperation. Ultimately, AIF aims to ensure greater access and inclusion in the financial technology sector, and for Filipino entrepreneurs to gain a foothold in a wider market. The AIF’s second series last 29 August is themed “Convergence of Fintech and E-Commerce: Ease in Credit on Time.” The post Globe Business carries MSMEs past challenges appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Aboitiz, GCNP spotlight corporate sustainability and SDGs
In the recently held GT Capital Thought Leadership Series at the Grand Hyatt, Manila, the Aboitiz Group emphasized the fundamentals of corporate sustainability by highlighting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and the company’s alignment with the global framework. As a board member of the UN Global Compact Network Philippines, Aboitiz Equity Ventures' FVP and chief reputation and sustainability officer Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar presented essential strategies for enterprises to maximize their impact in fostering positive societal change and environmental stewardship. Hontiveros-Malvar cited the connection between responsible business practices and global sustainable development. The principles, communicated through voluntary reporting mechanisms, facilitate transparent communication of corporate values aligned with the 17 SDGs. “Sustainable development is a concept that focuses on meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It recognizes the interconnections between economic development, social inclusion and environmental protection,” she said. “In other words, sustainable development aims to achieve a balance between economic growth, social well-being and environmental stewardship,” she added. Hontiveros-Malvar also touched on the nation's progress in terms of SDG integration, underscoring the necessity of coordinated efforts between government and non-government actors to optimize resource management and maximize SDG progress. “In the last few years we celebrate many businesses that have come together to create this era of action and attract others to join this global movement. May all of us continue to act responsibly, find opportunities and continue to inspire and advocate. We are united because this is bigger than just one business. We are stronger together and better together. And when we act collectively, imagine the change we can drive, and the better future we can shape as one. The possibilities are endless,” she said. Together with UN GCNP, the Aboitiz Group places utmost importance on sustainability as part of the group's transformation into becoming the Philippines’ first “Techglomerate” by utilizing innovation, sustainable solutions and community empowerment. The integration of sustainability into the Aboitiz Group's DNA has been showcased through various programs that demonstrate the group's commitment to sustainable practices that benefit both society and the environment. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. is the portfolio management company of the Aboitiz Group, with investments in power, banking and financial services, food, infrastructure, land and cutting-edge fields like data science and artificial intelligence. The post Aboitiz, GCNP spotlight corporate sustainability and SDGs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go lauds para athletes for 16th IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championships win
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go expressed his heartfelt admiration and support to the Philippine Accessible Disability Services (Pads) Paradragon Elite Team for their incredible achievement at the 16th International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) World Dragon Boat Racing Championships held in Rayong-Pattaya, Thailand from August 7 to 13. The Cebu-based dragon boat team took home an astounding six gold medals, outshining their previous record of four gold medals in 2019. “I am immensely proud of our Paradragon Elite Team for representing our country with honor and courage," said Go. "Despite the challenges, you show the world the true strength of the Filipino spirit. Proud po kaming lahat sa inyong tagumpay!” he added. Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Sports, has been a fervent advocate of sports development, particularly for differently-abled athletes. The senator's unwavering commitment is embodied in his key legislative initiatives, including Senate Bill No. (SBN) 2116, which aims to amend the "National Athletes and Coaches Benefits and Incentives Act" to provide increased incentives for para-athletes. In a Senate public hearing on August 14, Go stressed the necessity of upgrading incentives for para athletes to help improve their capabilities in international competitions. "Through the years, we have witnessed how the Filipino athletes stand out in various international sports competitions, such as the Southeast Asian Games, the Asian Games, para games, world championships, and Olympics," he said. "We can excel in sports with hard work, perseverance, and determination,” Go continued, focusing on the inspirational stories of Filipino athletes, particularly the differently-abled, who have demonstrated immense resilience and determination in their respective sports. SBN 2116 seeks to upgrade the incentives for para athletes to be at par with other international competitions of the same caliber. This bill intends to provide equal opportunities and recognition to all athletes, thereby promoting inclusivity and diversity in sports The senator also acknowledged the essential support extended by former president Rodrigo Duterte in securing prosthesis for the athletes. "The former president and I are glad to have been able to provide the much-needed support. Maliit na bagay ito kumpara sa malaking katapangan at tiyaga na pinapakita ng mga atleta,” he said. Go then highlighted the broader meaning of Pads’ victory, saying, “Hindi lang kayo nanalo ng isang kompetisyon. You've won hearts, inspired minds, at gave pride to our country. Your win is our win, and your triumph is the nation's triumph,” he concluded. Meanwhile, Go is also pushing for SBN 423, known as the Philippine National Games Act, aiming to provide a platform for athletes across the nation, particularly young individuals, to showcase their skills and compete at the national level. The post Bong Go lauds para athletes for 16th IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championships win appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
What experts want to hear during Marcos’ SONA this month
Economists said they are most interested to hear the plans of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on managing inflation, creating more jobs and his assessment of the proposed Maharlika Fund at his second State of the Nation Address on 24 July. “I’m looking forward to his plans on inflation and competitiveness. Inflation is a day-to-day concern of the ordinary Pinoy. You and I feel it,” Economics Prof. Ser Peña-Reyes of the Ateneo de Manila University’s Department told The Daily Tribune. The government aims to curb the rise in prices of goods and services within the inflation range of 2 percent to 4 percent this year. Last month, inflation figured at 5.4 percent, the lowest since June last year. In general, food as a basic need was cheaper as its inflation rate decreased to 6.7 percent in June from 7.4 percent in May. However, prices of certain food items, namely rice, fish and vegetables were up. Being also the agricultural chief, Peña-Reyes said Marcos must inform related industries and consumers of his strategies for boosting agricultural supplies and ensuring their efficient delivery to the markets. He said this should help meet the consumer demand which prevents price hikes. “Farmers and fishermen need to be organized to achieve economies of scale, and also be given access to credit, inputs, technology, and markets to make them competitive.” He added, “We really need to have a coordinated effort, similar to what our ASEAN neighbors are doing, where the entire value chain, from farm to fork, is covered.” Prof. Ramon Clarete of the University of the Philippines (UP) said he is keen on hearing from the president, the progress on clustering of farm lots nationwide as a way to increase agricultural production. “The president should end policies in the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law of 1988 or CARP and aggressively express support for cluster farming by small farmers.” This is echoed by Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry President George Barcelon, who said the government must consolidate small-scale farmers to achieve the economies of scale or increasing harvests at the lowest cost of production possible, through the use of machines and delivery of group assistance, such as loans and skills training, to farmers cooperatives and associations. “Three hectares of farmland allowed by CARP is small land for families of farmers, unlike in other countries. As we invest in machinery, research and development, the government must also allow bigger land for farmers to encourage productivity.” Barcelon added Marcos should also elaborate on his plan on “rightsizing to lessen bureaucracy and corruption.” Rightsizing ensures government agencies perform more efficiently and achieve certain objectives by implementing one or a combination of measures such as reducing the workforce, reorganizing the management team, or hiring new employees. However, he stressed rightsizing should not be confused with reducing government expenses as “it is more about gaining the most benefits for the government and the public in the soundest way.” According to the World Competitiveness Yearbook by the Switzerland-based Institute of Management Development, the Philippines ranked the lowest in government efficiency among 64 countries at 52nd this year from 48th last year. “Competitiveness is very important because it affects our attractiveness as an investment destination for foreign firms to expand their operations here, which would also affect our labor productivity,” Ateneo Prof. Peña-Reyes said. Aside from these, UP Prof. Clarete said he is awaiting statements from the president, which would indicate his support or disapproval of the proposed Maharlika Fund. Proponents of this fund said it will help increase the financial resources of the government and build more infrastructure projects through proceeds from a mix of investment channels such as stocks and bonds. Capital fund sources will come from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Land Bank of the Philippines, and the Development Bank of the Philippines. “In my view, the country is taking a big risk. Poor governance is a problem and remains to be so,” Clarete warned. “It may not happen in this administration but future administrations with nothing to prove as they only inherit the management of it may create innovative ways of stealing from the fund masked as failed investments.” The post What experts want to hear during Marcos’ SONA this month appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
What experts want to hear during Marcos’s SONA this month
Economists said they are most interested to hear the plans of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on managing inflation, creating more jobs and his assessment of the proposed Maharlika Fund at his second State of the Nation Address on 24 July. “I’m looking forward to his plans on inflation and competitiveness. Inflation is a day-to-day concern of the ordinary Pinoy. You and I feel it,” Economics Prof. Ser Peña-Reyes of the Ateneo de Manila University’s Department told The Daily Tribune. The government aims to curb the rise in prices of goods and services within the inflation range of 2 percent to 4 percent this year. Last month, inflation figured at 5.4 percent, the lowest since June last year. In general, food as a basic need was cheaper as its inflation rate decreased to 6.7 percent in June from 7.4 percent in May. However, prices of certain food items, namely rice, fish and vegetables were up. Being also the agricultural chief, Peña-Reyes said Marcos must inform related industries and consumers of his strategies for boosting agricultural supplies and ensuring their efficient delivery to the markets. He said this should help meet the consumer demand which prevents price hikes. “Farmers and fishermen need to be organized to achieve economies of scale, and also be given access to credit, inputs, technology, and markets to make them competitive.” He added, “We really need to have a coordinated effort, similar to what our ASEAN neighbors are doing, where the entire value chain, from farm to fork, is covered.” Prof. Ramon Clarete of the University of the Philippines (UP) said he is keen on hearing from the president, the progress on clustering of farm lots nationwide as a way to increase agricultural production. “The president should end policies in the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law of 1988 or CARP and aggressively express support for cluster farming by small farmers.” This is echoed by Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry President George Barcelon, who said the government must consolidate small-scale farmers to achieve the economies of scale or increasing harvests at the lowest cost of production possible, through the use of machines and delivery of group assistance, such as loans and skills training, to farmers cooperatives and associations. “Three hectares of farmland allowed by CARP is small land for families of farmers, unlike in other countries. As we invest in machinery, research and development, the government must also allow bigger land for farmers to encourage productivity.” Barcelon added Marcos should also elaborate on his plan on “rightsizing to lessen bureaucracy and corruption.” Rightsizing ensures government agencies perform more efficiently and achieve certain objectives by implementing one or a combination of measures such as reducing the workforce, reorganizing the management team, or hiring new employees. However, he stressed rightsizing should not be confused with reducing government expenses as “it is more about gaining the most benefits for the government and the public in the soundest way.” According to the World Competitiveness Yearbook by the Switzerland-based Institute of Management Development, the Philippines ranked the lowest in government efficiency among 64 countries at 52nd this year from 48th last year. “Competitiveness is very important because it affects our attractiveness as an investment destination for foreign firms to expand their operations here, which would also affect our labor productivity,” Ateneo Prof. Peña-Reyes said. Aside from these, UP Prof. Clarete said he is awaiting statements from the president, which would indicate his support or disapproval of the proposed Maharlika Fund. Proponents of this fund said it will help increase the financial resources of the government and build more infrastructure projects through proceeds from a mix of investment channels such as stocks and bonds. Capital fund sources will come from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Land Bank of the Philippines, and the Development Bank of the Philippines. “In my view, the country is taking a big risk. Poor governance is a problem and remains to be so,” Clarete warned. “It may not happen in this administration but future administrations with nothing to prove as they only inherit the management of it may create innovative ways of stealing from the fund masked as failed investments.” The post What experts want to hear during Marcos’s SONA this month appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Budget airline but with better services
Passengers of AirAsia Philippines can expect better services from low-cost air carrier sets to add more routes, increase the frequency and utilize wide-body aircraft following its recent transfer to a bigger terminal. AirAsia Philippines started welcoming passengers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 last week. It will operate all its domestic flights to and from the Centennial terminal — offering guests bigger space, better amenities, and a more comfortable travel experience. “We keep saying that this is a winning move for our guests because they deserve only the best from us. Moving to Terminal 2 will allow us to add more routes, increase the frequency and utilize wide-body aircraft soon to improve connectivity and enhance customer experience,” AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricky Isla said. Isla also pointed out that AirAsia Philippines’ On-Time Performance, or OTP the past months reached an average of around 80 to 85 percent. 100% on some days “We even reach a high of 100 percent on some days when there are no factors causing disruptions such as weather or lightning red alerts, air traffic congestion, and non-scheduled maintenance,” he added. For Civil Aeronautics Board executive director Carmelo Arcilla, “industry stakeholders and government to continue to engage to ensure that passengers ultimately win.” “We shall work closely with the industry towards full and strict adherence to the Air Passenger Bill of Rights as we endeavor to go above and beyond in the service of the Filipino people,” Arcilla said. AirAsia Philippines has been allocated 20 check-in counters for guests entering the south wing of the terminal. At Terminal 2, AirAsia Philippines passengers can utilize the seven operational aero bridges in the south wing and four remote parking bays during high traffic or peak hours. AirAsia operates more than 100 domestic flights daily and aims to increase routes and frequency during winter to provide guests with affordable flights. The post Budget airline but with better services appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
2023 PPOPCON Manila promises to be bigger, more exciting
The largest Pinoy pop music celebration returns this July at Araneta City. The Pinoy Pop Convention and Concert or PPOPCON remains to be the ultimate gathering for fans of the country’s music, with interactive activities that aims to bring today’s Pinoy pop idols closer to fans. The 2023 PPOPCON Manila, which will happen from 14 to 16 July, will also have fan booth exhibitions, fan signing sessions, and other activities in a new location, the Quantum Skyview at the newly-opened Gateway Mall 2. It will be open to the public for free. Josh Cullen, 1st.One, Alamat, Kaia, and G22 are expected to take part in the fan signing activity, while Dione, R Rules, Daydream, Mona, Valfer, Ver5sus, Yara, Yes My Love, Z2Z, SMS, Blvck Flowers, Eclipse, 6sense and Skouts will deliver performances. The festivities will culminate with the much-awaited PPOPCON Manila concert on 16 July, 6 p.m., at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, which will feature some of the country’s biggest local acts such as SB19, Bgyo, Bini, MNL48, 1st.One, Alamat, Josh Cullen, Felip, Sheki, Kaia, G22, Press Hit Play, Vxon, Ppopgen, Dione, Calista, Yes My Love and Hori7on. The concert will also be livestreamed for international fans. “Expect the 2023 PPOPCON Manila convention and concert to be filled with fun activities and breathtaking performances that will elevate the PPOP fan gathering experience. This is one big celebration to enjoy the best P-pop has to offer this year,” said Irene Jose, chief operating officer of Uniprom Inc., the entertainment unit of the Araneta Group. To get your convention passes and concert tickets, visit www.ticketnet.com.ph or ppopcon.ph/. The post 2023 PPOPCON Manila promises to be bigger, more exciting appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Committed to equity, sustainability, opportunity
As the Philippines looks forward to hosting the ABAC 3 (Asean Business Advisory Council) meeting in Cebu, the Aboitiz group acts as a key driver in advancing the shared goals of equity, sustainability and opportunity. The invaluable expertise of Aboitiz president and CEO and ABAC PH member Sabin Aboitiz contribute significantly to the Aboitiz Group’s endeavors and enhance the alignment between ABAC's vision and strategies. Sabin Aboitiz demonstrates the Aboitiz Group's unwavering commitment to sustainability. The focus on exploring the viability of nuclear energy via small modular reactors highlights the Group's interest in advancing clean and efficient energy sources to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change. Additionally, the integration of climate risk scenarios underscores the Group's proactive approach to understanding and addressing the potential risks and challenges posed by climate change. "At Aboitiz, we believe that businesses have a crucial role to play in promoting equity, sustainability and opportunity," Sabin Aboitiz said. "Through our collective efforts, we are committed to making a positive impact on society and fostering a better future for all." Apart from being the pioneer of renewable energy in the Philippines with 1249.17MW of total net sellable renewable energy capacity, AboitizPower, the energy arm of the Aboitiz Group, has shown commitment in promoting equity and inclusion within the company. Testament to that is the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging program, which aims to push the envelope further in creating a safe and welcoming workplace for all. The DEIB program includes the establishment of resource networks for LGBT+, women at work, and “special life” team members, which include single parents and differently-abled workers. [caption id="attachment_149059" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Aboitiz Group drives Philippine development through inclusive growth. In Cebu City, reliable power empowers the town, improving lives and supporting economic growth and trade among APEC economies. Union Bank of the Philippines, led by Aboitiz, promotes financial inclusion through digital banking nationwide.[/caption] Group wide, Aboitiz also implements several initiatives that further celebrate diversity and maintain an inclusive workplace. Among these are information sessions and people stories for Women’s Month, Pride Month and Mental Health Month. The company also boasts a balanced representation of male and female team members, fostering an environment that values gender equality and provides equal opportunities for all. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, AboitizPower and Aboitiz InfraCapital are proud member companies of the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment, a nonprofit organization advocating workplace gender equality. Aboitiz understands that the overall success of the company also depends on the individual success of the team members. And by creating a culture where everyone feels valued, respected and included, the Aboitiz group makes sure that no one is left behind in the journey toward progress. The Aboitiz-led UnionBank of the Philippines plays an important role in the group’s digitalization path, driven by its dedication to “Tech-Up Pilipinas” and fostering widespread economic growth. Environmental stewardship also lies at the core of Aboitiz’s efforts, as the company actively pursues environmentally responsible practices and solutions that meet the sustainable development goals set by the United Nations. Aboitiz Equity Ventures, the holding company of the Aboitiz Group, has placed sustainability at the forefront of its business strategy. The Aboitiz Cleanergy Park, located at the tip coast of Punta Dumalag, Matina Aplaya, Davao City, is a huge part of Aboitiz's sustainability efforts. The eight-hectare biodiversity park serves as a haven for migratory and local birds, various mangrove species, a pawikan rescue center facility and a nesting ground for critically endangered sea turtles. By partnering with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Aboitiz continues to live out its sustainability efforts by also spearheading the protection and rehabilitation of Boracay Wetland No.4. As a linear urban park, the Boracay Wetland will offer a range of recreational activities that incorporate eco-friendly tourism designs, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Apart from biodiversity conservation, Aboitiz InfraCapital, the infrastructure arm of the Aboitiz Group, advocates better water resource management via corporations like Apo Agua Infrastructura Inc. and LIMA Water Corporation. Apo Agua is building one of the Philippines’ largest private bulk water supply facilities in Davao City, which harnesses sustainable water sources and provides reliable water supply to the growing population of Davao City. The project not only ensures access to clean water but also supports the local economy and promotes environmental stewardship. The post Committed to equity, sustainability, opportunity appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DA-PCA chooses North-Cotabato as coconut hub
The Department of Agrarian Reform and the Philippine Coconut Authority recently conducted a validation activity in the province of North Cotabato to boost the province’s coconut industry. Over the weekend, DAR Assistant Regional Director H. Roldan Ali, Al-Haj said the department is looking for potential agrarian reform beneficiaries’ organizations that would be developed as a central hub for coconut processing under the proposed coconut value chain boosting project. “The DAR aims to improve the processing and products of the ARBOs so that they would have a steady or even expanded bigger market,” he said. Further interventions Evangeline Bueno, Provincial Agrarian Reform Program Officer II, explained that potential ARBOs will be assessed for further interventions to strengthen their operations and to establish tie-ups with private sectors to expand their markets. The validation team, composed of DAR regional and provincial officials, paid a visit to Bagong Pag-asa Credit Cooperative, a DAR-assisted organization engaged in virgin coconut oil production at New Panay, Pigcawayan. Coconut value chain boosting project Seminiana Bawik, Project Manager of BPCC, said she is thankful to the DAR for considering them as potential recipient of the proposed coconut value chain boosting project. “We are very grateful to the department for their continued assistance in improving our livelihood projects,” she said. The BPCC is a recipient of various support services from DAR. One of the projects they received is the VCO processing machine and equipment under the Climate Resilient Farm Productivity Support Project which is now in the process of registration with the Food and Drug Administration. DAR in a statement said the activity is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella III to improve the economic lives of the farmers. The post DA-PCA chooses North-Cotabato as coconut hub appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
RCEP seen driving trade funds demand
The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership or RCEP among members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations plus five other countries will help drive demand for business loans from Philippine banks, economists told the Daily Tribune on Thursday. “RCEP would expand the sources of cheaper imports for foreign and local investors, including small and medium enterprises or SMEs, that manage their respective global supply chains,” Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation chief economist Michael Ricafort said. Effective starting 2 June, RCEP aims to gradually reduce tariff rates on various goods from ASEAN members and other countries over 20 years. It is also seen as streamlining rules on intellectual property, telecommunications, financial services, e-commerce and professional services. Doing business smoothly Ricafort said these mechanisms will also allow foreign firms to do business in the Philippines more smoothly. “It would help attract more foreign direct investors to locate in the country as a production base, as well as an access point to bigger export markets of RCEP member countries in the region and other parts of the world,” he said. Aside from the Philippines, the 14 other trade partners in RCEP are Cambodia, Singapore, Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia, New Zealand, Japan, Australia, South Korea and China. New opportunities “RCEP will create new opportunities, expand business operations, and thereby improve the business environment for SMEs in the Philippines by which banks should benefit as well,” Security Bank chief economist Dan Roces said. RCEP members could generate total exports worth $5.2 trillion and a gross domestic product of $26 trillion, according to global business consultancy PricewaterhouseCoopers or PwC. However, Ricafort said local SMEs should adapt fast by improving their employees’ skills and business strategies. “RCEP would also mean increased competition for some local producers, including SMEs, in view of the influx of cheaper imports from other RCEP member countries for the coming years.” The Department of Trade and Industry had reported at least 52 percent of micro businesses and SMEs fully reopened in 2021. “The country’s membership in RCEP would be one of the sources of economic growth and recovery especially after the Covid-19 pandemic,” Ricafort said. The post RCEP seen driving trade funds demand appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Muntinlupa calls for ecowarriors, offers perks for volunteers
For the month of June, the city of Muntinlupa is calling for volunteer ecowarriors to help clean up waterways and plant trees — and exciting rewards await those who heed the call. The City Government recently launched “Make Your City Proud,” a volunteer program that aims to address social issues such as environmental awareness through volunteerism and camaraderie among Muntinlupeños. “Through this initiative, we aim to harness the synergy between the local government, the private sector, and citizen volunteers to achieve bigger goals together, instead of on our own,” Mayor Ruffy Biazon said. The MYCP offers perks and incentives from partners in the private sector. By participating in each activity, volunteers can earn and accumulate points that they can redeem for rewards in partner merchants such as Jollibee, Pancake House, Max’s Restaurant, Kenny Rogers Roasters, Seattle’s Best Coffee and Art Fresh Chicken Corporation. Today, 5 June, the MYCP will kick off the month’s activities with a cleanup drive at Bayanan Baywalk. The volunteers will then return on 24 June to plant trees, bougainvillea and palmera at the Bayanan Baywalk as well as at Weidmann, Putatan. This will be followed by a river cleanup drive along the Alabang-Cupang River on 25 June. The post Muntinlupa calls for ecowarriors, offers perks for volunteers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»