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Local elections guaranteed uninterrupted power
The upcoming elections of local officials, at least across the franchise area of the Manila Electric Co., the country's largest power distributor, will be free from power disruptions that could potentially impact the outcome of the activity. In a press statement on Monday, the company reported that it mobilized its team to respond to any electricity service concerns on the 30 October 2023 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections. “Meralco will be on alert 24/7 to respond to any distribution-related problem until the conclusion of the election process," Meralco Spokesperson and Vice President for Corporate Communications Joe Zaldarriaga said. "Our crews will be deployed in strategic locations across its franchise area and will be ready to address any possible problem with electricity service,” he added. Among others, Meralco has inspected the electric facilities of close to 3,000 polling and canvassing centers, which include public schools and barangay halls, within its franchise area. It is also conducting maintenance activities for its distribution facilities to ensure stable and reliable electricity service on election day. The distribution utility has also trimmed trees, removed hazards that can obstruct power lines, and prepared over 300 generator sets as well as nearly 800 flood lights on standby in case there is an unexpected power interruption. Meralco also reminded personnel who will be manning polling and canvassing centers to refrain from plugging in unnecessary appliances to avoid octopus wiring, which can lead to overloading. The public, meanwhile, is urged to refrain from using balloons, firecrackers, confetti, party poppers, and the like near overhead lines and facilities to avoid tripping and power interruptions. The post Local elections guaranteed uninterrupted power appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SM Foundation innovates to spread environmental good
[caption id="attachment_193417" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Health workers in San Fernando, Cebu Primary Healthcare Facility water the locally sourced plants using the water from the rainwater harvesting system.[/caption] Rainwater harvesting is a way of collecting and storing rainwater for later use. It is an effective and adaptable way to conserve water and reduce reliance on main water supplies. Due to its efficacy, it has been applied by many civilizations in history and is being utilized today by forward-thinking institutions as a sustainable water management strategy. SM Foundation, Inc., for one, has embraced this by installing rainwater harvesting systems in two of the local health centers it recently refurbished–Brgy. Irawan Birthing Facility in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, and San Fernando, Cebu Primary Health Care Facility. SMFI’s Health and Medical Programs proactively implemented this innovation to help sustain the health of the local community while preserving the environment. Ready in times of emergency Dr. Alfredo P. Manugas VI, Municipal Health Officer and Health Department Head of San Fernando, Cebu Primary Health Care Facility, said that while water is crucial to their operations, water supply is not always available in their municipality, even their center. “The rainwater harvesting system is essential in our health facility because the water supply in our municipality is not available 24/7,” he said. “We are now provided a source of water in times of emergency or any interruption of water supply. Our staff and visitors can use rainwater for cleaning, flushing the toilet bowls, and watering the plants.” [caption id="attachment_193418" align="aligncenter" width="525"] SMFI Health and Medical Programs senior project manager Albert Uy runs through how the system functions.[/caption] SMFI ensures that the facility is convenient and manageable to maximize its purpose. It operates without electricity, increasing its sustainability. To harvest water for non-potable use, it collects rainwater from the roof and gutter. The water is filtered through vinyl-coated mesh filters to ensure its quality before being stored in the 800-liter storage tank. To guide users for safe recycled water use, all faucets connected to the facility have visible labels. Alongside this innovation, SMFI also used air-cleaning paints, LED lighting fixtures and appliances, and locally sourced plants to create a clean and comfortable environment for patients and health workers. These green innovations exemplify SMFI's commitment to the environment and community health within the broader context of the SM Green Movement. With the social impact of the two rainwater harvesting systems, SMFI targets to replicate this initiative in other health centers in its pipeline, further improving water security in the face of challenges. [caption id="attachment_193422" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Health worker use the rainwater harvesting system for their outdoor cleaning needs.[/caption] The post SM Foundation innovates to spread environmental good appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Eco group warns vs toxic lead spray paints
An environmental group on Wednesday has urged authorities to look into the sale of five lead-containing spray paints being sold in Metro Cebu cities. According to the EcoWaste Coalition, the spray paint brands — the yellow Bad Axe Spray Paint which contains 23,080 ppm lead, canary yellow, jade green, Gongcheng orange yellow and deep yellow variants — had 21,610 ppm, 21,500 ppm, 20,040 ppm and 15,700 ppm. It added that it discovered these spray paints are being sold in the cities of Cebu, Lapu-Lapu and Mandaue. “Our discovery of five more lead-containing aerosol paints in Cebu indicates the need for improved compliance monitoring, particularly outside Metro Manila and Luzon, to protect the health of children and adults from this continuing source lead exposure,” said EcoWaste Coalition’s Manny Calonzo. These five Bad Axe brand spray paints are being sold each for less than P100 per 400 ml can. As indicated on the label, Bad Axe can be used for coating the interior and exterior wood, steel and other metal surfaces of household appliances, equipment, furniture, bicycles and the like. “The product has no manufacturer’s markings and its country of manufacture is unknown. It provides no information or warning about the paint’s lead content,” said the group. However, the product’s date of manufacture is indicated at the bottom of the can and all variants of Bad Axe were manufactured between 2021 to 2023, or after the completion of the national phase-out deadline for lead-containing decorative paints in December 2016. The World Health Organization, which co-manages the Secretariat of the Global Alliance to Eliminate Lead Paint or the Lead Paint Alliance, has warned that lead exposure can have serious consequences for the health of children. EcoWaste Coalition added that exposure to lead is known to result in adverse health effects such as damage to the brain and central nervous system, slowed growth and development, hearing and speech problems, learning difficulties and behavioral problems, which can cause reduced ability to pay attention, underperformance in school, and lower intelligence quotient. The country’s lead paint regulation is stipulated under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Administrative Order 2013-24, which established a maximum limit of 90 ppm for total lead in paint. This landmark chemical policy phased out leaded decorative and industrial paints in December 2016 and December 2019, respectively. The post Eco group warns vs toxic lead spray paints appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Iconic Italian home brand marks 16 years in Phl
Sixteen years of bringing joy to Filipino homes. This was how SMEG Philippines presented itself to its guests to mark its recent anniversary celebration at The Ayala Museum. SMEG, the world-famous Italian brand of modern lifestyle home and kitchen appliance that incorporates technology and style into every product, is exclusively distributed in the Philippines by Mondo Cucina Inc., owned by the power couple Ton and Karen Concepcion. SMEG stands for Smalterie Metallurgiche Emiliane Guastalla (roughly translated to English as Metal Enameling Plant of Guastalla, Emilia). It is best known for its outstanding performance and sleek, retro-style designs for refrigerators, washing machines, stand mixers, toaster ovens, microwaves, wine cabinets and coffee machines – all in striking colors of red, blue, orange, yellow, white and what-have-you. The iconic global brand has elevated the culinary experience with a touch of sophistication to numerable kitchens, making them truly a functional pieces of art. “Sixteen years ago, my wife Karen and I went to a town called Guastalla in Emilia Romagna in the northern Italy, where SMEG’s headquarters are located,” said Ton, founder and owner of MCI. “We immediately fell in love with SMEG. Never have we seen such beautiful appliances made with careful attention to design and technology. We knew we have to bring SMEG into the Philippines. And so, in 2006 driven by a passion for excellence into bringing the best experiences to the customers, we open the first SMEG experience center at Serendra in BGC.” Concepcion added: “Today, SMEG is an iconic brand — a household name desired by many. It can be found in top luxury homes all over the Philippines and nearly 10,000 luxury condominiums across Metro Manila, Cebu and Davao, all having SMEG kitchens. Our customers understand that SMEG products are actually pieces of art and not just appliances. We are excited for the future as we continue to innovate and launch new products and expand our stores and service centers nationwide.” Functional pieces of art Since SMEG products have been recognized as functional pieces of art, it was just apt that SMEG Philippines anniversary was held at the Ayala Museum, where guests were first transported to Italy via a delightful indoor garden installation, then ushered to view a great Philippine masterpiece. The venue was transformed into a lush Italian garden playfully adorned with SMEG appliances like an art installation reminiscent of the Emilia Romagna region. It was filled with lemon trees, flowers and verdant greens that came alive with the stunning colors of SMEG appliances showcased as pieces of art. Then, guests were ushered to an exclusive preview of a great Philippine masterpiece -- Juan Luna’s long-lost artwork, “Hymen, oh Hyménée.” This prized work by Luna stayed with him for a decade until his death in Hong Kong in 1899, when it mysteriously vanished. Italian ambassador to the Philippines, Marco Clemente, and SMEG Export director for Asia Matteo Lupi graced the event. Business leaders from the Italian Chamber of Commerce in the Philippines and stalwarts from the country’s property development, design and architecture industries were also present. “Our brand’s commitment to outstanding design and quality remains,” said Karen, SMEG Philippine creative director. “SMEG technology is very important and unique. It’s energy saving. It’s a big plus.” SMEG Philippines continues to push the envelope in terms of design and innovation. The long tradition and history, combined with new creations continue to bring even better SMEG appliances to more homes. “For the next 16 years or maybe not just 16 but many more years, we continue to innovate and market the brand. We always want to think out of the box and that’s the spirit of SMEG — artistic, high quality and unexpected,” Karen concluded. The post Iconic Italian home brand marks 16 years in Phl appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
An Italian garden with surprises
The prestigious Ayala Museum provided the perfect venue for SMEG Philippines’ recent 16th anniversary. Guests were first transported to Italy via a lush indoor garden installation with colorful and artistic appliances that SMEG is known for......»»
Basketfuls of holiday promos
On its 65th year, SM Markets has unveiled a month-long series of treats to make shopping much more rewarding for all. Take advantage of the incredible offers and promotions and experience the best of shopping during this special anniversary month. SM Markets announced a month-long celebration with a series of 65th-anniversary promotions. [caption id="attachment_192206" align="aligncenter" width="525"] TRADITIONAL Christmas hamper.[/caption] From pantry staples to delightful treats, discover a wide range of food choices that SM Markets curated at incredible value. Priced at P65, for example, are the popular SM turon at three pieces and a dozen SM Bonus eggs. Exclusive anniversary P65 bundles are on offer by food tenants and grocery brands. [caption id="attachment_192208" align="aligncenter" width="525"] FRONTERA wine[/caption] [caption id="attachment_192209" align="aligncenter" width="525"] CHARCUTERIE board[/caption] Customers can enjoy a substantial discount of up to 65 percent on some of their favorite products. A perfect pre-Christmas gift to customers is a discount of P65 off if they purchase two SM Bonus Christmas baskets worth P599. In addition to in-store promotions, explore a wide array of deals and discounts online at smmarkets.ph. This includes P65 price point, P65 off and free delivery. The promos are exclusive to SM Advantage card members. An exciting offer awaits BDO credit cardholders on all weekends of the anniversary month. For a minimum purchase of P3,000, BDO credit cardholders will receive an extra 100 points. Great for party raffle prizes and perfect for spreading festive cheer is the Christmas basket at P399. Each beautifully wrapped and packaged basket of sweet treats, gourmet delights, or a combination is a hassle-free present. Ideal as gifts and giveaways are small appliances. SM Markets is adding more value with buy 3-plus-1 promo on small appliances. Beginning 1 November, don’t miss the “buy one get one free” offer on small appliances. The post Basketfuls of holiday promos appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Space-Saving, Budget-Friendly Essentials to Surviving College Dorm Life
Moving into a dormitory for college is an exciting adventure. It is a time for both independence and personal growth. At the same time, it can be quite a challenge. Juggling coursework and housework can be taxing. To make the transition from home to dorm life smoother and less stressful, having small appliances can be helpful as they simplify tasks. Hanabishi Appliances has a great selection of affordable products to meet the must-haves of living in a dormitory. They are made from quality materials, easy to use, and budget-friendly, which makes them perfect for students who are starting to live life on their own. These products can easily be purchased through the Hanabishi website, www.myhanabishi.com, and from leading appliance stores nationwide. Oven Toaster An oven toaster is a good appliance to have in the dorm as it can help prepare quick breakfasts and snacks. With the Hanabishi Aesthetic Electric Oven Toaster 10L, there is more room to heat, toast, and bake. Multi-Function Cooker For those times when one feels like whipping up a fancier meal, the Hanabishi Aesthetic White Multi-Function Cooker 3L is a great appliance to have. It is a non-stick cooking pot with a stainless steel streamer, two-heat setting, overheat protection function, and pilot light indicator. Electric Fan An electric fan is an essential in a dorm, and Hanabishi is known for its high-quality fans. One of its latest products, the Hanabishi Aesthetic Floor Fan White, is an industrial fan that can help one stay cool and comfy when the room starts to feel stuffy. It comes in an aerodynamic design with three-wing six-inch plastic blades, a 3-speed rotary control, adjustable fan head, heavy-duty metal stand and front grill, and easy-carry handle. Electric Kettle Boiling water for a quick caffeine or instant noodle fix doesn’t need to be complicated. With the Hanabishi Electric Water Kettle Pearl White Series 0.8L, hot water can be had in a jiffy. Digital Air Fryer With the Hanabishi Digital Air Fryer White, you would need little or no oil to make your favorite fried foods. It has a large 5.0L capacity and is easy to clean. Flat Iron For ironing uniforms or school outfits, the Hanabishi Flat Iron is good to have, It has a smooth ceramic coated sole plate and is thermal fuse protected. It also comes with an automatic thermostat control and a colorful LED power indicator. Induction Cooker With its slim design, the Hanabishi Induction Cooker wouldn’t take up so much space in your dorm but can provide you with 80% cooking efficiency. It has eight cooking functions: soup, braise, slow fire, fierce fire, hot pit, deep fry, and fry. Visit www.myhanabishi.com to learn more about Hanabishi Appliances. Follow its official social media accounts to stay updated on its latest products and promos. The post Space-Saving, Budget-Friendly Essentials to Surviving College Dorm Life appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Venezuela offers a peek at prison run by gang
Venezuela's Tocoron prison was like a town all unto itself, boasting restaurants, a pool, a zoo, a playground for inmates' kids, and so much more as a powerful gang ruled the roost, using the facility as a criminal operations center. "Steak House. Enjoy," reads a sign on the wall of one of the restaurants in the prison, which thousands of soldiers and police stormed this week. Tocoron is now empty of the 1,600 prisoners who lived here and have been moved elsewhere. Gone is the gang that controlled it, called Tren de Aragua, which has tentacles in various countries of Latin America. "Life was nicer and safer in prison than out on the street," said the wife of a prisoner transferred elsewhere, declining to give her name. Venezuelan authorities took some 30-odd journalists on a controlled and limited tour of the prison on Saturday. The reporters did not get to see the concrete tunnels that the prisoners dug -- pictures of them are circulating on social media -- or what is left of the zoo with its pink flamingos. On one door is written "GNB: the train has stopped." That is the acronym of the Venezuelan national guard, and train refers to the gang. That was a message aimed at the visiting journalists but which the government is also presumably trying to spread nationwide amid the embarrassment of having a gang running a prison and living in relative luxury. Interior Minister Admiral Remigio Ceballos has said four prison officials had been arrested and charged with complicity with the criminals. The Tren de Aragua, which reportedly numbers some 5,000 criminals, emerged in 2014, specializing in classic mafia activities: kidnapping, robberies, drugs, prostitution, and extortion. It has extended its influence to other activities, some legal, but also to illegal gold mining. The head of the gang, Hector Guerrero, and other leaders were tipped off before the big raid on Wednesday and managed to flee the prison and the country a week beforehand, according to the Venezuelan Prison Observatory (OVV), a group that follows developments in the country's notoriously dangerous detention centers. As reporters toured the prison, bulldozers tore down a small settlement of houses made of brick, wood, and metal. The authorities gave no explanation as the machines rolled noisily over walls, bed linens, curtains, and other housewares. 'Look in the morgue' Rubeles Mejias, aged 25 and the fiancee of an inmate serving a 13-year term for manslaughter, said she lived in the jail for seven months and left only when her four-year-old daughter had to start school. Her man, whom she planned to marry in a few weeks, was one of the so-called "baptized" people in the prison -- devout Christians who wore white and were treated as a separate caste within the prison hierarchy. Gang members would leave them alone. "It was peaceful. There was a swimming pool, a zoo," Mejias, a hairdresser, said Wednesday after the raid as she stood outside the prison. She said her partner worked in a prison shop and sent her money so she could survive Venezuela's hyperinflation and shortages of food, medicine, and other essentials. "It was he who helped me," she said. The few streets that reporters touring the prison were allowed to see were littered with beer bottles, clothing, TVs, appliances, and stuffed animals. Near the pool and a basketball court were abandoned food stands. On the day of the raid, AFP reporters saw police taking away valuables such as air conditioning units, TVs, and motorcycles as women waiting at the gates of the prison for news of their loved ones screamed "Thieves!" On Saturday, three prisoners in yellow jail uniforms walked around the grounds, which include a building labeled as being for "the training of new men." Outside the prison, many people were still waiting, hoping to find out where their loved ones were sent. Claribel Rojas cried as she looked for her brother. Nesbelis Mavares was trying to find her partner, who was in for homicide. "The last message I got from him was a voicemail Wednesday in which he said, 'I love you. God bless you,'" Mavares said. She added: "They are prisoners, not animals. A guard told us to go look in the morgue." The post Venezuela offers a peek at prison run by gang appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Meralco assures readiness to respond to impact of Southwest monsoon
The Manila Electric Company has assured its customers that its personnel are ready to immediately respond to power outages that may result from the southwest monsoon currently being experienced in parts of its franchise area. This comes as the state weather bureau Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said the southwest monsoon was enhanced by Severe Tropical Storm Hanna (international name: Haikui) which is currently inside the Philippine Area of Responsibility, as well as Super Typhoon Saola and Tropical Storm Kirogi. The southwest monsoon is expected to bring gusty conditions over Bulacan, Metro Manila, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Bicol Region, Western Visayas, and the northern portion of Eastern Visayas until 1 September. “As a 24–hour service company, we are ready to respond to these types of emergency. Our crews are on standby to attend to any trouble that may affect our facilities in areas that might be affected by the inclement weather,” Meralco Vice President and Head of Corporate Communications Joe R. Zaldarriaga said. Zaldarriaga added that Meralco has put in place necessary measures to mitigate the possible impact of monsoon rains, including the issuance of advisories on appropriate precautionary measures. The company has consistently requested billboard owners and operators to temporarily roll their billboards up to prevent these structures from being toppled by the strong winds. Meralco also advised its customers to continue practicing electrical safety measures which are very important especially when there is flooding. • Ensure that the main electrical power switch or circuit breaker is off. Be sure to be dry when being in contact with any electrical facility. • Unplug appliances from wall sockets. Turn off permanently connected equipment and unscrew all light bulbs if possible. • Remove mud and dirt from service equipment or main circuit breaker/fuse and its enclosure using rubber gloves and rubber-soled shoes. • Make sure that all electrical wires, connectors, and other wiring devices are completely dry. • When all electrical wires and accessories have dried and are clean, the wiring system of all appliances must be checked by a licensed electrician. Do not turn on flood-damaged electrical appliances. Zaldarriaga also urged the public to keep all channels of communication open and ready and charge mobile phones, laptops, radios, and other communication gadgets. Customers may tune in to the different public service radio stations should power interruptions occur. To report power outages and other concerns, customers may reach Meralco through its official social media pages on Facebook (www.facebook.com/meralco) and Twitter (@meralco). They may also text their concerns to 0920-9716211 and 0917-5516211 or contact the Meralco Hotline at 16211 and 8631-1111. The post Meralco assures readiness to respond to impact of Southwest monsoon appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sell no casino
As a take-off point, let us quote Abraham Lincoln’s words on the legitimate object of government, viz., “It is to do for a community of people whatever they need to have done, but cannot do in their separate and individual capacities.” In the case of privatizing Pagcor down to some 45 casinos, it would appear that the “bargain of government spending” is framed along Adam Smith’s theory — “Give me this which I want and you shall have this which you want.” Privatization simply means removal of responsibilities, activities, or assets from the collective realm, but are there not “risks and rewards when we put public tasks into private hands?” All of a sudden — from out of the blue — this government plan to auction off Pagcor is quite disconcerting unless national survival has become a central concern. Rep. Rufus Rodriguez rightly questions, thus, “Why do we sell the goose that lays the golden egg?” Specially so since the agency’s forthcoming net gains are on the uptrend (i.e., P59 billion in 2022 and an estimated P75 billion by the end of this year). So far, the alibi of government is that by selling its casinos — lock, stock, and barrel — Pagcor’s role as “gaming regulator-cum-operator” becomes purely as regulator. In other words, there is that “revolving door problem” which should be avoided. Even granting that this could be a tenable argument for privatization — though never heard of — what would the backlash be? As far as the role of the Governance Commission for GOCCs is concerned, a public enterprise like Pagcor should only be privatized, if and only if, there’s a “government failure;” when it fails to generate revenues for the state; when it becomes reduced to a “non-performing asset;” when it shows “poor grades” in its Corporate Governance Scorecard. Thus, to privatize Pagcor absent these parameters should be interpreted as “implied contempt for government bureaucracy,” albeit misplaced. The sale of the casinos would fetch about P60 to P80 billion — practically within the same threshold of profit intake for any given year, give or take. In recent weeks, it’s as though the Senate’s over-fixated concerns with Pagcor were the POGOs (Philippine offshore gaming operators) alleged as fronts for human trafficking, kidnapping, other sorts of lawlessness. After privatizing the Pagcor casinos, will all these problems then go away? Bottom line, who in his right mind can say that Pagcor isn’t doing any better given that it contributes half of its revenues to the national coffers (i.e., in taxes) and mandated beneficiaries. It is said to be one of the government’s “staunch allies in nation building” and one of the biggest revenue generators. With the casinos out, who will shoulder the fiscal void created when “funded mandates” shift back to becoming unfunded? As a consequence of privatizing the casinos, there will be a number of national government agencies, local government units, non-government organizations, peoples’ organizations, a number of taxes, duties, licenses, fringe benefits — that taken together would no longer bring a “bundle of joy” to mandated beneficiaries who were allocated such subsidies over the years. The next thing that will ensue is the stark truth that Pagcor would cease to be a “responsible partner of the Filipino” — once privatization cuts the umbilical cord of subsidy dependence. In the next cycle, Pagcor would slide down from third place among GOCCS that remit the highest government contribution. As a rule, no GOCC belonging to so-called “billionaires club” should close shop without more justifiable grounds. In short, it should come last in privatization’s pecking order. There’s clearly no compelling reason to sell off the Pagcor casinos by public auction if the projected proceeds to be generated thereof are practically equivalent to the profit intake of any given year. Again, it escapes comprehension why only a handful of policy makers are against this self-inflicted move. The new pack of most-favored operators will quickly recoup their money without needing to gild the lily. What luck! The post Sell no casino appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sale! Sale!
The Abenson Appliance Fest is the perfect event for those looking to upgrade their homes with quality appliances. For a limited time, you can find great deals on an extensive selection of appliances from Abenson at the TriNoma Activity Center from 21 to 26 August. Score exclusive deals, awesome discounts of up to 50 percent, up to 24 months 0-percent installment on major credit cards and get free delivery with a minimum spend of P10,000. “Abenson presents its largest appliance mall exhibit to date at the TriNoma Activity Center. This event will offer unbeatable prices on high-quality appliances, making it a must-attend for anyone looking to upgrade their home,” said Apple Ma, marketing head of Abenson. Not only will you get to shop for all the latest appliances, you’ll also get to hear the iconic Filipino rock band Parokya ni Edgar, who will be playing its classic hits songs live. Nico Bolzico and Valeen Montenegro will also make an appearance at the event. Get exclusive access to the band’s performance when you complete the Abenson x TCL Quest Card. Don’t miss your chance to meet Parokya ni Edgar in person and get a photo op — only 50 customers can take advantage of this opportunity. The post Sale! Sale! appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
UnionBank taps tools for quick loans
Union Bank of the Philippines, or UnionBank, expects revenues to surge by 132 percent this year as it further streamlines digital and in-branch processes through communication solutions from global provider Infobip. Marc Angeles, UnionBank’s head for low-code development and automation, on Wednesday said the bank has been able to increase messages to clients from 20,000 per hour to 100,000 per hour using Infobip’s technology, leading to more applications for quick loans and a 12-percent growth in income. Infobip’s service called Moments helps the bank engage clients using artificial intelligence or AI to collect data from customers about the types of messaging tools they use often and the specific times in a day they open these communication tools. Different channels accessed “Before we were just sending via texts or SMS. With Infobip, we can deliver messages via different channels like Viber and email,” Angeles said. He said UnionBank started using Infobip’s Moments three or four months ago. With the automation features of Moments, UnionBank can talk to clients for updates on quick loan applications and marketing campaigns more effectively Quick loans provide clients cash for small and medium purchases of certain products and services, such as gadgets, home appliances and travel. “We know if they are booking the loan and engaging with us. Moment is an automated platform. If the clients are not active on SMS, communication automatically switches to Viber or email,” Angeles said. In this way, Infobip said UnionBank can maximize internet-based messaging apps amid the intermittent or low-signal connection in some areas, especially in the provinces. “We have time optimization which analyzes when the users access their messages and the time when they have the internet if they are using Whatsapp or Viber,” Andrew Egan, Infobip’s vice president of sales, said. To add new clients and introduce its digital services, UnionBank said it will continue to deploy physical tools and activities. “We have transformed physical branches into being more personal than simply transactional. We rolled out bank on wheels, for example, to reach clients including those in business process outsourcing during their payday, as well as visit remittance centers, especially in the provinces,” Angeles said. Infobip, on its part, stressed it will continue to tap messaging tools that appeal most to the consumers as UnionBank aims to provide financial services to all Filipinos. “The goal will always dictate the channel of choice. Infobip provides business opportunities not to use proprietary tools invented by Infobip. We don’t want to dictate another communication channel. This is ease of access,” Cecile Tizon, Infobip’s sales director for Asia Pacific, said. The post UnionBank taps tools for quick loans appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
China stops releasing youth jobs data as economic figures disappoint
China said it would stop publishing data on its rising youth unemployment rate on Tuesday, as it released a raft of disappointing figures that stoked concerns over the state of the world's second largest economy. Shortly before the latest uninspiring indicators were published, the central bank cut a key interest rate in an effort to boost flagging growth. Tuesday's data added to a slew of disappointing figures in recent months reflecting a slump in China's post-Covid rebound, with joblessness among 16- to 24-year-olds hitting a record 21.3 percent in June. The country slipped into deflation for the first time in more than two years in July, due to waning consumption and flagging exports. The National Bureau of Statistics on Tuesday said it would no longer release age-group-specific unemployment data starting this month, citing the need to "further improve and optimise labour force survey statistics". "Starting from this August, the release of urban unemployment rates for youth and other age groups across the country will be suspended," bureau spokesman Fu Linghui said at a press conference. Overall, unemployment rose to 5.3 percent in July compared with 5.2 percent in June, the NBS said. As indicators of an economic slowdown have piled up, many experts have called for a large-scale recovery plan to boost activity. But for the time being, authorities are sticking to targeted measures and declarations of support for the private sector -- with little in the way of tangible steps. Slowing retail sales Tuesday's announcement that youth unemployment data would be suspended came as Beijing released a series of weak economic indicators for July. Retail sales, a key gauge of consumption, grew 2.5 percent year-on-year in July, the NBS said, down from 3.1 percent in June and falling short of analyst expectations. Industrial production grew 3.7 percent in July from a year ago, down from 4.4 percent in June. The suspension of youth jobs data "may further weaken global investors' confidence in China", Ting Lu, China economist at Nomura, said in a note. Chinese social media users on Tuesday were skeptical of officials' explanation for the move, with the topic receiving over 140 million views and tens of thousands of comments on the Weibo platform. "Can you solve the problem by gagging and blindfolding yourself?" asked one Beijing-based user in a post liked by more than 3,000 people. Chinese leaders have sought to boost domestic consumption in recent weeks, with the State Council last month releasing a 20-point plan to encourage citizens to spend more in sectors including vehicles, tourism and home appliances. The country's top brass has warned that the economy faces "new difficulties and challenges" as well as "hidden dangers in key areas". The recent data suggests China may struggle to achieve a five percent growth target set for the year. The economy grew just 0.8 percent between the first and second quarters of 2023, according to official figures. Rate cut In a surprise move, the central bank on Tuesday cut the medium-term lending facility rate -- the interest for one-year loans to financial institutions -- from 2.65 percent to 2.5 percent. A lower MLF rate reduces commercial banks' financing costs, in turn encouraging them to lend more and potentially boosting domestic consumption. "We believe the Chinese economy is faced with an imminent downward spiral with the worst yet to come, and the rate cut this morning will be of limited help," Lu of Nomura said. The Consumer Price Index, the main gauge of inflation, fell 0.3 percent in July, the National Bureau of Statistics said last week. China slipped into deflation in July for the first time in more than two years, after a short period of deflation at the end of 2020 due largely to a collapse in the price of pork, the most widely consumed meat in the country. While cheaper goods may appear beneficial for purchasing power, falling prices pose a threat to the broader economy as consumers tend to postpone purchases in the hopes of further reductions. A lack of demand then forces companies to reduce production, freeze hiring or lay off workers, and agree to new discounts to sell off their stocks -- dampening profitability even as costs remain the same. The post China stops releasing youth jobs data as economic figures disappoint appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Huge discounts at SM Supermalls’ Cyber Tech Sale this August
You won’t believe the deals that are up for grabs at SM Supermalls. UnlimiTECH choices and a wide array of fun tech options are up for gadget lovers from August 1-31, 2023, nationwide. Cyber Month Tech Sale will include price slashes on gadgets and appliances, game fests, promos, freebies, and exhibits from partner brands. Tech […] The post Huge discounts at SM Supermalls’ Cyber Tech Sale this August appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
No need to go to the bank! Maya empowers SMEs with all-in-one digital banking
The country’s fintech game-changer, Maya, is revolutionizing how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can thrive in the new economy with the Maya Business 1-2-3 Grow Bundle. .....»»
Fire hits Valenzuela warehouse
A fire gutted a warehouse containing grocery items and appliances in Barangay Bagbaguin, Valenzuela City on Saturday night......»»
Feel the Cyber Thrill this August!
Looking for the best deals on everything tech? Ready to play at the largest nationwide sports area? Now is the best time to visit SM Supermalls and unleash the gamer within as it celebrates the latest tech innovations and gadget trends, with exclusive deals and promos this Cyber Month! From 1 to 31 August, a celebration of e-sports and all things tech that make our lives easier and more convenient will take place at SM Supermalls. Essential gadgets, thrilling activities, and new discoveries are waiting to be made and will welcome every individual with various needs. Get ready as SM transforms its malls into a larger-than-life e-sports arena. Gamers and e-sports fans are in for a treat at the CyberMonth celebration, at over 60 malls nationwide, as community tournaments and an immersive gaming environment take center stage. Tag along with your friends and watch some intense and epic battles as players try to outplay each other at the community matches. Gaming that never goes out of style. If you are a gamer who loves classic video games, the Retroverse is for you. Select malls every Saturday will be setting up Retro Gaming Stations featuring classic consoles and games from the past. Relive the magic of iconic titles like Super Mario Bros., Pac-Man, Tetris, and Sonic the Hedgehog. Venture into different worlds with AweSM Kids. Kids and kids at heart can have some fun at the Kids Zone–-an interactive area featuring popular games like SM Kids Roblox and Minecraft every weekend for the whole month of August. The GeekCon is on! SM celebrates all things geek this Cyber Month including a Cosplay Competition. Every Sunday, bring your favorite anime, manga, games, TV, series, and comic book characters to life through elaborate costumes and performances that will wow the crowd. The GeekCon will also feature activities that geeks will love such as collectible toy displays, visual arts masterclasses, meet-and-greets with popular streamers, and Collectible Card Game Tournament. Techtopia for all your tech needs. SM malls nationwide will have multiple activity areas bringing together a wide range of gadgets, interactive installations, and displays at Techtopia. Get your hands on the newest and trendiest gadgets, devices, and even smart home appliances at SM. Plus, at the Techtopia zone, you can check, test, and ensure the product’s quality before making that big purchase. Discover the hottest tech deals. Gear up and get your baskets ready for SM Supermalls’ month-long nationwide tech and gadget sale. Whether you shop at your favorite SM mall or scroll through your go-to SM Online and SM Deals apps, there are a lot of great gadget deals all for you. Avail of these special promos, special offerings, and bundles on select items with up to 50% off in participating stores this August. Mark your calendars! August is geek-out month with these fun-filled activities and deals in store for you this Cyber Month at an SM mall near you. Game on and shop #TechAssured gadgets and get exciting deals when you #CheckCyberzone. For more information, visit www.smsupermalls.com/cyberzone or follow @SMSupermalls and @smcyberzone on social media. [caption id="attachment_167231" align="aligncenter" width="843"] The 2023 Cyber Month Launch at SM North EDSA[/caption] [caption id="attachment_167232" align="aligncenter" width="2560"] SM City Marikina[/caption] [caption id="attachment_167234" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] SM City Cauayan[/caption] The post Feel the Cyber Thrill this August! appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DOTr studies MRT-3 privatization options
The Department of Transportation has until July 2024 to decide whether it will package the privatization of the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 and Light Rail Transit Line 2 in one bundle......»»
Nasugbu demands quality electricity as 22,000 petition shift to Meralco
Frustration over persistently subpar electricity services has united Nasugbu residents and establishments to demand a change, with more than 22,000 people signing a petition letter -- representing nearly 70 percent of all households in the municipality -- urging the transfer of their electricity service from BATELEC I to Meralco. In recent months, Nasugbu has been plagued by frequent and prolonged brownouts, coupled with voltage fluctuations that are wreaking havoc on appliances and equipment in households and business establishments. The accumulating complaints from the community have become impossible to ignore, prompting them to rally behind Mayor Tony Barcelon, who has initiated discussions with Meralco to find a solution to the municipality's predicament. "This isn't just about electricity; it's about uplifting our livelihoods," said a petitioner, speaking for the general sentiment of the community. Barcelon, a vocal advocate for the cause, has time and again conveyed the grievances of his constituents to both BATELEC I and relevant government agencies overseeing electric cooperatives. In an interview with the local paper Regioneer, a leading local paper, Barcelon called on BATELEC I to collaborate with the local government to explore viable options for transferring electricity services to Meralco. “Nasugbu stands united, echoing the voice of over 22,000 signatures, demanding nothing short of excellence in electricity services. Together, we urge a transition to Meralco, symbolizing our unwavering pursuit of quality power for our progressive community,” said the mayor. The post Nasugbu demands quality electricity as 22,000 petition shift to Meralco appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Nasugbu unites in demand for quality electricity
Frustration over persistently subpar electricity services has ignited a sweeping movement in Nasugbu, as residents and establishments join forces to demand a transformative change. More than twenty-two thousand (22,000) signatures adorn a resounding Petition Letter, representing nearly 70% of all households in the municipality, urging the transfer of their electricity service from BATELEC I to the renowned MERALCO. In recent months, Nasugbu has been plagued by frequent and prolonged brownouts, coupled with voltage fluctuations wreaking havoc on appliances and equipment, both at homes and businesses. The accumulating complaints from the community have become impossible to ignore, prompting them to rally behind their Mayor, Tony Barcelon, authorizing him to initiate discussions with MERALCO to turn their aspiration into a reality. The groundswell of support for the Petition underscores the unwavering determination of Nasugbu's residents to secure a brighter future. "This isn't just about electricity; it's about uplifting our livelihoods," said a passionate petitioner, encapsulating the sentiment echoed throughout the bustling municipality. Mayor Tony Barcelon, a vocal advocate for the cause, has tirelessly conveyed the grievances of his constituents to both BATELEC I and relevant government agencies overseeing electric cooperatives. In an exclusive interview with the esteemed Regioneer, a leading local newspaper in the Province of Batangas, Mayor Barcelon called on BATELEC I to collaborate with the local government to explore viable options for transferring electricity services to MERALCO. As the movement gains momentum, Nasugbu's residents stand firm, confident that their vision of quality electricity services will only come to fruition with the support of their government leaders. The unyielding spirit of the community serves as a beacon of hope for others across the nation, igniting a fervent call for change and progress in the realm of electricity provision. According to Mayor Tony Barcelon “Nasugbu stands united, echoing the voice of over 22,000 signatures, demanding nothing short of excellence in electricity services. Together, we urge a transition to MERALCO, symbolizing our unwavering pursuit of quality power for our progressive community” The post Nasugbu unites in demand for quality electricity appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»