PayMaya’s workplace programs cited by LinkedIn, Anvil Awards
Digital financial services leader PayMaya has been cited by global technology firm LinkedIn and the local Anvil Awards for its trailblazing efforts in creating the workplace of the future today amid the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic......»»
PayMaya’s workplace programs cited by LinkedIn, Anvil Awards
Digital financial services leader PayMaya has been cited by global technology firm LinkedIn and the local Anvil Awards for its trailblazing efforts in creating the workplace of the future today amid the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic......»»
Watsons wins Silver at 59th Anvil Awards for Himtayan campaign
Watsons, a leading health, wellness and beauty retailer, recently secured a Silver Award in the prestigious 59th Anvil Awards for its Himtayan campaign......»»
MullenLowe MARC wins top honor for PR Programs at 59th Anvil Awards
MullenLowe MARC, the public relations unit of MullenLowe TREYNA, took home 12 Anvils at the 59th Anvil Awards organized by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP)......»»
SM Group lauded for transparent reporting, social campaigns
The SM Group recently received 14 awards for public relations during the 59th Anvil Awards......»»
Lapillus, Filipino boy group Hori7on cited at Asia Artist Awards 2023
AAA 2023 is being held for the first time in the Philippines. It names the best in K-pop and K-drama for the year. .....»»
PLDT’s program for mom entrepreneurs shines at 3rd UN Global Compact Network Philippines’ SDG Awards
Recognizing companies and programs with outstanding contributions towards sustainable development, particularly on areas of the Planet, Prosperity and People, the SDG Awards cited MMPH for enabling digital inclusion among women, promoting decent work and economic growth, and supporting the recovery and resilience of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). .....»»
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 legacy award for Tita Helen
Our favorite charity fund raiser, the indefatigable and ageless Helen Ong, honorary consul of Angola to the Philippines, received the surprise of her life when the Board of Trustees of the Philippine Cancer Society bestowed on her the organization’s first-ever Legacy Award, which cited “her outstanding service as the chairperson of the Best Dressed Women of the Philippines from 2004 to 2023, while selflessly dedicating her precious time and worthy efforts to raise funds for the benefit of the PCS and, in so doing, alleviate the plight of cancer-stricken Filipinos.” Given during the recent “Best Dressed Women of the Philippines 2023” awarding at the Shangri La Hotel The Fort, the award underscored “her indefatigable commitment and loyal devotion to the Society for the last 20 years, even beyond the call of duty; her inspiring creativity and unparalleled perseverance in ensuring assistance was forthcoming during the Covid-19 pandemic amidst the scarcity of resources; and her unwavering belief in the compassionate hearts of her fellowmen and her steadfast faith in God.” [caption id="attachment_192151" align="aligncenter" width="525"] MEN of Great Influence 2023 (from left) David Ackerman, Noel Gonzales, Harold Co, Philippine Red Cross chairman Richard Gordon, Dr. Cecilio Kwok Pedro, Orberto Alvarez Jr., Richard Cariño and Richie Lerma.[/caption] The signatories of the award were PCS chairman of the Board of Trustees Antonio J. Ma. Guerrero and PCS president Dr. Corazon A. Ngelangel, with PCS trustee Dr. Kelly Salvador and PCS executive director Dr. Rachel Rosario handing the plaque of recognition to the awardee. Earlier, in her welcome remarks, Tita Helen, as she is fondly referred to by her friends and family, said, “This marks a day of gratitude for me as this is our 20th year. This could not have been possible without your continued help and support to our noble cause by providing financial assistance to your cancer-stricken brothers and sisters. [gallery columns="2" size="large" ids="192157,192161"] [gallery columns="1" size="large" ids="192162,192163"] Addressing the honorees, she acknowledged “every one of you here who have accepted our invitation as an awardee. Choosing one is not an easy task as we aim to recognize achievers in their own fields of work or advocacy, who are not just measured by their success and accomplishments but also by the kindness of their hearts. [caption id="attachment_192164" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Dr. Lauren Lior Liechtenstein.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_192165" align="aligncenter" width="525"] DAVID Ackerman and Mache Torres Ackerman.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_192166" align="aligncenter" width="515"] Agile Zamora receives her husband Wopsy Zamora’s award. Photographs by Yummie Dingding for the Daily Tribune [/caption] “Being beautiful has nothing to do with looks; it is how you are as a person and how you make an impact on the lives of many, especially to those who are in need. Beauty isn’t about having a pretty face, it is about having a pretty mind, a pretty heart and pretty soul.” Finally, she thanked “God who has been providing me with abundant blessings to be able to mount this event.” Major sponsors of this most special of annual awards recognizing these icons of style and philanthropy were Museo Orlina Foundation, Midas Hotel and Casino, San Miguel Foundation Inc., PAGCOR, The French Baker, SM Investments, SM Retails, Corso Como 88, Salcedo Auctions, Wilcon Depot Inc., Czarina Foreign Exchange, IPM Holdings Inc., B.A. Securities Inc., MW Travel and Tour and NEO. The post A legacy award for Tita Helen appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Thousands of rice farmers treated to PhilRice field day
Thousands of farmers across the country had been feted in the traditional Lakbay Palay field festival, where all eight stations of the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) opened their doors for farmers to personally view the progress and benefits of the latest palay seeds technologies done in the premier rice research institute of the country. Department of Agriculture Undersecretary for Rice Industry Development Leocadio Sebastian said the dry season Lakbay Palay is held every March or April and the wet season every September or October. Sebastian said the participants toured the 140 hectares of PhilRice field in Science City, Nueva Ecija. The farmers also had the chance to look into the available seeds and soil nutrients of the private sector exhibitors during the two-day festival from 27 to 28 September. Farmers learn PhilRice-developed technologies which include Palayamanan system, a rice-based farming system they can adopt to lessen the economic effects of El Nino, high yielding varieties and farm machinery, according to DA official. He added that about 10 public and private agencies and cooperatives also pledged their support to the “BIDA RiceBIS, Be the rice’s best” movement, which aims to increase farmers’ market opportunities. The regular Lakbay Palay, which started in 1992 as Farmers’ Field Day, was changed into Lakbay Palay in 2012 under the administration of PhilRice Executive Director Eufemio T. Rasco Jr. It held before October each year or the start of the planting season for the dry season crop. The 2023 Lakbay Palay wet season festival was simultaneously held in all eight stations of PhilRice with the biggest festival held at the PhilRice Central Experiment Station in Munoz, Nueva Ecija. The other stations that held simultaneous Lakbay Palay were Batac, Isabela, Los Banos, Bicol, Negros, Agusan and Midsayap. The farmers that attended on both days of the Lakbay Palay in Nueva Ecija were from Zambales, Bulacan, Pangasinan, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Tarlac and Aurora provinces. The farmers were divided into 500 persons a day but the number was exceeded on the second day as many walk-ins showed up. PhilRice Executive Director Dr. John de Leon said farmers are welcome to visit the 140-hectare research and development farm and the new Crop Protection Division for any of their inquiries and concerns. PhilRice Deputy Executive Director for Development Dr. Karen Barroga urged the farmers to work in clusters so they could meet the required rice volumes of potential private sector partners for their produce. She cited the case of Negros Occidental farmer-cooperative who is now selling 500 bags a week to Merzci, a famous palalubong and fastfood chain in the region for its business and corporate social responsibility activities. This was made possible through the Rice BIS (Business Innovation System) of PhilRice, which links farmers to private sector buyers so they can enjoy better market prices for their produce. Another partnership was forged by PhilRice between the farmers of Zambales and Bicol who are now supplying the Kiwanis International for their feeding programs for poor communities, she said. Dr. Val Perdido, who represented Undersecretary Leocadio Sebastian for Rice Industry Development, exhorted the farmers to improve their yields using both new technologies and better farming practices so the country can meet its food sufficiency and nutritional goals and improve the farmers’ incomes. He said Nueva Ecija farmers have proven yields of six tons a hectare but most other areas produce four tons or less. He mentioned that the Department of Agriculture is giving production assistance to farmers (in fertilizers and biofertilizers) in addition to the certified seeds, training and machineries provided under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) program. A farmer cooperative officer, Vincent Gonzales of St. Vincent Parish Multupurpose Cooperative in Dupax del Sur, Nueva Vizcaya narrated to the participants that their coop was founded in 1979 by a Belgian priest to help farmers– who borrow from loan sharks for their daily subsistence with a capital from 400 members of P4,000 has now grown to 5,600 members with a total material asset of P424 million. The coop is now able to support members through loans and social development activity, scholarship grants, medical assistance and food packs (for the disabled and the aged). It had received numerous awards including the Most Outstanding SIPAG award in 2022 from Senator Cynthia Villar. The post Thousands of rice farmers treated to PhilRice field day appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
SMIC bags top spots in HK honors
SM Investments Corp. bagged the top spot in two categories in the recently concluded 13th Institutional Investor Corporate Awards by Alpha Southeast Asia magazine. The winners were based on a poll of investors and analysts in the region. It was the company’s twelfth win for the Most Organized Investor Relations and its eighth as the company with the strongest adherence to corporate governance in this annual poll. “We are grateful to Alpha Southeast Asia and industry investors for recognizing the company’s work in upholding the highest standards in investor relations and corporate governance,” Frederic DyBuncio, SM Investments president and chief executive officer, said. Social campaigns cited SM Investments was also named as one of the top companies with Best Senior Management IR Support and Best Strategic CSR. “We are cognizant of how our developments impact many communities. We are committed to serving these communities and enhancing value for all our stakeholders,” DyBuncio added. The poll was conducted from last January to June based on tallied votes among 586 investors and analysts with exposure to the Southeast Asia region, according to the Hong Kong-based investment magazine. The post SMIC bags top spots in HK honors appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sweden, Mandaue eye development pact
The Swedish government is set to partner with Mandaue City on transportation and waste management systems to make the city as sustainable smart locality. In her recent visit to Cebu, Swedish Ambassador to the Philippines Annika Thunborg said there are a lot of ideas for partnership with the city government and Mandaue Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “We are very like-minded. Mandaue as a city has won different awards as sustainability and smart city development. I have been to different events where I have spoken and Mandaue City often gets a prize or a winner, so that bodes very well for the future,” Thunborg said. Thunborg was one of the speakers at the MCCI Business Summit 2023. She cited that a transportation system is one area that has been discussed for collaboration with Mandaue City. “Another area is waste management and waste-to-energy and that we also discussed with Cebu Governor Gwen Garcia previously,” Thunborg said. “Of course, as we know there is a lot of interest in moving towards a more sustainable waste management system in Cebu,” she added. Meantime, Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes welcomed the proposed collaboration with the Swedish government as he reiterated the goal of his city to become a smart and sustainable city. “I am confident that we are on the right track, Mandaue is doing good, with the good partnership with the business sector, and we do hope to take advantage of the momentum. The momentum is on our side,” Cortes told DAILY TRIBUNE. Sweden is known for a very efficient transportation system which includes Bus Rapid Transit systems, ferries, trains and subway systems. The post Sweden, Mandaue eye development pact appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DAR fast-tracks land distribution in first year of PBBM admin
Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III on Sunday reported that the DAR had already distributed a total of 71,360 titles covering 85,853 hectares to 68,427 farmer-beneficiaries. Of these, Estrella said some 49, 484 titles covering 43, 623 hectares were distributed to 43, 623 farmer-beneficiaries from January to July 2023. From January to December 2022, under the previous DAR administration, only 2,343 titles covering 2,159 hectares were distributed to 3,393 farmers. Under the present administration, within a comparable period, from July to December 2022, the numbers soared to 6,736 titles covering 8,991 hectares distributed to 6,945 beneficiaries. The DAR secretary specifically cited the record-breaking performance on the distribution of e-titles under the project Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT) which parcelized lands under collective certificates of land ownership awards (CCLOAs) to have specific areas titled to individual farmers. A whopping 1,6275 percent increase was noted from January to July 2023 with a total of 33,654 e-titles covering 46, 241 hectares given to 29,320 ARBs compared to only 2,343 titles covering 3, 393 hectares distributed to 2, 159 beneficiaries from March 2021 to June 2022 under the previous administration. Estrella said that the SPLIT land distribution performance for the first 7 months of 2023 is outstanding compared to the cumulative 22 months of overall land distribution accomplishments from March 2021 to December 2022. “The DAR is bent on distributing the remaining target of at least 30,000 titles more for this year to complete its target for 2023 to distribute a total of at least 80,000 titles to our ARBs nationwide,” Estrella said. At the House Committee on Appropriations budget hearing on 17 August 2022, Estrella also cited his same report that lawmakers lauded the performance of the DAR and expressed support for the move to increase the 2024 budget of the DAR which only amounted to P9.392-billion from P16 billion in 2023. The solons noted that the proposed 2024 budget is insufficient to finance its three major program thrusts in 2024 namely accelerated land distribution, swifter agrarian justice delivery, and strategic provision of broader support services to farmers. The DAR’s P9.392.29-billion proposed budget is 40.74 percent or P6.457.241-billion lower than its 2023 appropriation of P15.850.2-billion. Estrella also cited the major performance milestones of the DAR in the first year of this administration which include the signing of Republic Act No. 11953 or the New Agrarian Reform Emancipation Act which condones all the unpaid amortizations of the agrarian debt, including interest and surcharges, if any. Under the said law, the government also assumes the obligation of 10,201 ARBs tilling 11, 531.24 hectares of land to pay the remaining balance of the direct compensation due the concerned landowners under the Voluntary Land Transfer (VLT) or the Direct Payment Scheme (DPS) amounting to P 206,247,776.41 million. The post DAR fast-tracks land distribution in first year of PBBM admin appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Cinemalaya acting winners mostly first-timers
The Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival, which this year had the theme “IlumiNasyon,” concluded its 10-day run on 13 August with the awarding ceremony held at the grand lobby of the Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City. Jasmine Curtis-Smith hosted the ceremony and sweetly reminded everyone of the goal to conclude it in less than two hours. Iti Mapupukaw made history in Cinemalaya's 19 years of operations by being the first animated entry and winning Best Film in the full-length category. “Gusto kong ibigay ito sa lahat ng mga Eric na inalisan ng bibig at hindi nakapagsalita,” said the movie’s director, Carl Joseph Papa, in his acceptance speech. He was referring to the lead character named Eric (played by Carlo Aquino) who literally has no mouth and can’t speak but goes on to overcome a traumatic experience. In the short film category, Januar Yap’s Sibuyas ni Perfecto was named Best Film for its “quiet but coruscating take on social iniquity and how the poor’s exploitation by the rich is driven by their own denigration and self-abasement.” The top-grossing Iti Mapupukaw also won the NETPAC (Network for the Promotion of Asia Pacific) award for “its finely nuanced, masterfully crafted tale of healing, friendships and young love, effectively utilizing state-of-the-art technology that is integrate to its storytelling.” The NETPAC for short film went to Hinakdal for “its pithy, layered and strong social commentary lace with dollops of humor.” Dolly de Leon, who plays Eric’s mother Rosalinda, won Best Performance of a Supporting Actress. She thanked Papa “for your beautiful script, your beautiful story,” adding“Kung hindi dahil sa ’yo, talagang hindi ito mangyayari.” The internationally acclaimed actress also thanked the movie’s producers Antoinette Jadaone and Dan Villegas of Project 8 Projects film production company, as well as costars Carlo Aquino and Gio Gahol. She then exclaimed, “Grabe, first time kong makatanggap at magsalita ng award dito sa Pilipinas. Ang sarap pala ng feeling.” She later clarified to media outlets covering the event that she meant giving an acceptance award here in the Philippines. She wasn’t able to do that when she won the Famas Best Supporting Actress award in 2020 for the film Verdict. Newcomer Pat Tingjuy, who played the lead role in the coming-of-age volleyball movie Rookie, bagged the award for Best Performance of an Actress in first-ever acting project. She was understandably speechless when she accepted her award. “I don’t know what to say,” she said, but went on to thank the producers, who are also from Project 8 Projects, and then admitted, “Naiyak ako.” Tingjuy’s costar Mikoy Morales won the award for Best Performance of an Actor for his other entry, the sexually charged Tether. “This means so much to me,” said the GMA-7’s homegrown artist in his acceptance speech. Rounding up the acting awards was Bon Andrew Lentejas for Best Supporting Actor, who was singled out for his “engaging portrayal of a young man trying to under his best friend’s difficult ways” in another coming-of-age movie, Huling Palabas. Tingjuy, Morales and Lentejas are all first-time acting award winners. The stellar cast of Ang Duyan ng Magiting — including de Leon, Agot Isidro, Bituin Escalante, Joel Saracho and Paolo O’Hara — was given the special award for Best Ensemble Acting. Dustin Celestino’s full-length feature film got the Special Jury Prize for presenting, among others, a “trenchant portrait of the wages of political violence.” Its counterpart in the short film category went to Sam Villa-Real and Kim Timan’s Hm Hm Mhm for “its boldly experimental verve to depict a woman revisiting the darker aspects of her childhood.” The Best Director awards were bestowed on Ryan Espinosa Machado for Huling Palabas (full-length feature) and Mike Cabarles for Makoko sa Baybay (short film). Machado was commended for effectively harnessing “the resources of art to come up with a deeply personal film that evokes fond memories of pre-digital cinema while paying homage to one’s small-town roots, and how all of this contributes to fashioning self-respect and self-identity.” Cabarles was lauded for employing “the resources of cinema in effectively evoking the loneliness of two brothers missing their mother whom they have lost to the sea.” The awards for Best Screenplay were given to Jopy Arnaldo, who also directed Gitling (full-length feature film), and Arvin Belarmino, the cowriter, along with Kyla Romero, of Hinakdal (short film). Gitling was cited for “its very tender tale of two persons bridging the divide between races and cultures and, through constructed language and through silence and even evasion, coming to a poignant understanding of the heart.” On the other hand, Hinakdal got the jury’s nod for the “very striking narrative that remakes the horror genre while humanizing and endowing them with heart and soul.” Kevin Mayuga’s When This Is All Over won three technical awards: Best Cinematography for Martika Escobar, Best Production Design and Best Original Musical Score for Kindred. Kindred is composed of Justin Punzalan, Vince Dalida, Luis Montales, Jaime San Juan, Moses Webb, Fern Tan, Jorge Juan Wieneke V, Othello Intia. Samatha Lee’s Rookie nabbed the Best Editing award for Ilsa Malsi while Gian Arre’s Tether got the Best Sound for the filmmaker who’s also responsible for this technical aspect. Rookie also received the Audience Choice award for full-length feature film, along with Hinakdal in the short film category. The post Cinemalaya acting winners mostly first-timers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Kwentoon joins Globe’s Hapag Movement to boost local talent, combat hunger
In a unique blend of art and social awareness, Kwentoon, a Philippine start-up connecting young audiences to thoughtfully selected visual content, has teamed up with the Hapag Movement to help address involuntary hunger. As part of this advocacy, 10 percent of every ticket sold at the recently held Kwentoon Festival 2023 will be donated to the Globe-led movement, a social initiative aimed at eradicating involuntary hunger through supplemental feeding and livelihood training for struggling Filipinos. Kwentoon Festival 2023 was held at SM Megatrade Hall 3, with over 150 exhibitors and artists and 1,439 visitors. The event showcased a range of activities, including workshops, talks and the Mango Boot Camp Graduation in partnership with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines. One of the event's highlights was the Philippine Children's Content Awards, which aims to recognize the creativity and originality of Filipino comic artists or the so called “kwentoons.” "We are excited to be part of the Hapag Movement, not only to promote homegrown talent but to also address pressing societal concerns," said Isa Songco, Kwentoon co-founder. “Filipino artists are actually very good but unfortunately a lot of them get outsourced by firms overseas. That is why when it comes to animation or manga, there is not a lot of intellectual property from the Philippines. So our progression is actually delayed in comparison to our neighboring countries. Recognizing the imperative for local job creation, we hold the Hapag Movement dear to our hearts. This initiative not only fights hunger but also creates a wealth of opportunities for our fellow Filipinos,” Songco added. Yoly Crisanto, Globe Group chief sustainability and corporate communications officer, thanked Kwentoon for its support as she cited the community’s unique opportunity to use art as a way to raise awareness about social issues, particularly hunger. “Art has the ability to evoke empathy and compassion like no other medium can. We are grateful to have Kwentoon as a partner in the Hapag Movement and to have on board visual storytellers who can draw attention to the problem of involuntary hunger through art,” Crisanto said. Established in 2020, Kwentoon aims to inspire and equip local artists to create kid-friendly visual narratives. It connects young audiences to curated content that promotes the values of love of country and family, camaraderie and hope. The post Kwentoon joins Globe’s Hapag Movement to boost local talent, combat hunger appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Economic autarky toward merdeka
As a caveat, the Malay word “merdeka” is used here not to mean fully independent, a shibboleth of radical Malays. It was the battle cry against colonial rule over Indonesia and Malaysia and was adopted by Maranaw secessionists as “maradeka.” Rather, it means genuine self-rule as defined in the Bangsamoro Organic Law. Wordsmiths should not stretch its meaning and cause unnecessary alarm to our defense and security establishments and reignite antipathy toward Muslim autonomy. Having said that, any entity struggling for autonomy will flop if not supported by programs that promote economic autarky, a pillar of self-rule. What good is political autonomy if the autonomous authorities will still have to beg the central government for funds for its operations? Economic dependence will still chain the autonomous entity to the national government, which will make a mockery of the pyrrhic victory of the autonomists. The region of Muslim autonomy is blessed with natural resources which remain unexplored and untapped. As described in a media report, it has a “potential reservoir of wealth that could transform the region into a vibrant energy hub and bring in billions of pesos in revenue from oil, gas, and mineral exploration.” It is the focal point of Mindanao as a land of promise. If these potentials are developed and unleashed it will liberate Moros from poverty and give full meaning to the legislated autonomy. These thoughts cascaded in our mind with the recent report about the BARMM Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy and the Department of Energy signing in Malacañang the “Intergovernmental Energy Board Circular“ on the joint awards of petroleum service and coal operating contracts within the region... (they) agreed to jointly exercise power in granting rights, privileges, and concessions for the exploration, development and use of fossil fuels such as petroleum, natural gas, and coal within the autonomous region.” How will they divide the revenues? It will be 50/50, meaning they will split whatever proceeds equally. The event was so very important that no less than the President witnessed the signing ceremony, expressing the government’s support in the face of the “depleting Malampaya reservoir and volatile fossil fuels prices.” He likewise expressed optimism for the future of the BARMM. In fact, this was one of the issues cited by the President in his recent State of the Nation Address, along with his declaration of support for the progress of the BARMM. This hopefully will attract local and foreign investors to participate in the exploration and development of energy resources in the region. The sharing evenly of the dividends between the national and autonomous governments is unprecedented. In the past, the national government got the lion’s share of the proceeds of the exploration, while the local governments, the situs of the natural resources, got only crumbs. This was what happened to the exploration and development of Lake Lanao. Through the lake’s outlet, the Agus River, it generates hydroelectric power that supplies a major part of the island of Mindanao, bringing in millions in revenue to the national government, while the native Maranaws of Lanao del Sur get only token benefits. Measly financial support was allegedly handed out to the local governments affected by the rise and fall of the water of the lake — an issue that has been the subject of numerous court litigations through the years. The Moros should rejoice. This single signing event has tons of implications not only for their lives and future but also for defining the relationship and delineation of powers of the autonomous and central governments. This will become the template for future ventures over which the two entities exercise joint authority. Reports of this kind should encourage the stakeholders to take the words of Speaker Pangalian Balindong of the Interim Regional Parliament to heart when he asked for support for the nascent autonomous regional government. His advice not to kill the goose that lays the golden egg rings convincingly. *** amb_mac_lanto@yahoo.com The post Economic autarky toward merdeka appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
PLDT, SMART fastest Internet provider, most valuable Filipino brand
PLDT and SMART continue to receive recognition from various international consulting organizations for their technical prowess and stable financial strength, affirming their dominance as the leading telco in the country. Last month, Global benchmarking company Ookla® announced that PLDT had dominated the Ookla® Speedtest Awards™, achieving a top speed score of 86.52 in 2022, affirming the telco’s dominance and consistent performance in delivering the country’s fastest Internet speeds for the fifth consecutive year. This was the result of PLDT’s aggressive network expansion and drive to lift the quality of customer experience. The PLDT Group has been supporting the country’s digitalization by bringing the benefits of connectivity and other digital services to more areas in the Philippines. In 2022, PLDT recorded a total of 6.08 million fiber-powered ports, covering around 17,700 barangays across the country. PLDT president and CEO Al Panlilio said PLDT is committed to helping build and empower the nation by setting the bar high in providing world-class digital services to Filipinos PLDT delivers a fiber-optic speed of up to 10 Gbps, which was made available to the public as early as 2021. This move has placed the Philippines alongside first-world nations in terms of ultra-fast Internet speeds, including South Korea, Japan, Norway, Italy, New Zealand, and the USA. As of end-2022, PLDT had added 1.1 million new fiber subscribers, capturing 59 percent of fiber customer industry growth for 2022. This brought PLDT Home’s total fiber subscribers to 2.9 million. This week, a London-based business valuation and strategy consulting firm, Brand Finance, feted PLDT with the distinction of the Most Valuable Filipino Brand for 2023. Like famous global brands, PLDT’s proactive efforts at creating brand loyalty, awareness, associations, and maintaining the international standards of its products and services among its stakeholders have paid off. The recognition is a testament that over the years, PLDT has made itself a household name as one of the most trusted and credible telco companies in the country. Since its inception, it has unceasingly worked to help the nation’s push for digitalization by providing vital connectivity to help transform the Philippines into a globally competitive and digitally-empowered country. Brand Finance adopted a structured methodology in giving the distinction to PLDT. In valuing the brand, it meticulously reviewed every brand’s revenue and earnings before interest and taxes and arrived at the decision that PLDT led other brands surveyed. As one of the main drivers of its improved year-on-year revenue, PLDT Group’s investments in fiber technology was a key factor in its garnering the prestigious award from Brand Finance, with a total fiber footprint of over 1.1 million kilometers as of end-March 2023. With a 2 percent annual increase in brand value to US$2.6 billion, the performance of the country’s largest integrated telco contributed to the brand capturing a higher market share of the fiber industry, which led to a 45 percent improvement in year-on-year revenue. The Brand Finance report cited PLDT’s consistent focus on innovation as a driver to improve customer service and propel the nation toward becoming a financial and technology hub. Besides investing in fiber technology, Brand Finance also lauded PLDT’s deployment of carbon fiber cell towers, an environmental initiative that seeks to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide produced by up to 70 percent, as compared to using traditional steel towers. Carbon fiber towers also take up less land space, reducing the need for land repurposing. “PLDT is a socially responsible corporation that seriously cares for our environment by deploying the country’s first carbon fiber cell towers, as well as solar panels, in our facilities across four cities to reduce over 137 tons of greenhouse gas emissions,” Panlilio said. In support of the government’s digitalization goals, the citation also reinforces PLDT and Smart’s commitment to bridging the digital divide — a mandate of the Private Sector Advisory Council or PSAC Digital Infrastructure Group, on which Panlilio sits as a founding member. PLDT and Smart’s efforts recognized by Brand Finance are among the broad range of initiatives undertaken by the group in its continuing drive to elevate the customer experience and become the region’s leading ESG telco. These objectives are two of the five pillars of PLDT and Smart’s multi-year transformation launched in 2022, in response to the rapidly shifting market conditions in the Philippines. The post PLDT, SMART fastest Internet provider, most valuable Filipino brand appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Nation-builders cited for sustainability efforts
For their contributions to nation-building and their love for the country, a new batch of extraordinary Filipinos was recognized in the recently concluded Nation Builders and Mosliv Awards last 30 June at the Okada Manila Grand Ballroom. Leaders from both the government and private sectors, businesses, youth groups, philanthropists and sustainability leaders, who have pitched in to nation-building through their programs, advocacies and projects, were praised by the country’s leading Sustainability Awards Festival as it steers towards sustainable and inclusive progress in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. “The Nation Builders and Mosliv Awards celebrates the people and groups who accomplish great things in the name of sustainability. And as we recognize what they have done, this is also a reminder that we are all stewards of the planet and it is our responsibility to ensure that we leave it in better condition than we found it,” said Nation Builders and Mosliv Awards president and chief executive officer Kenneth Rocete. Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte echoed NBMA’s initiatives in working together as one for the future not only of the nation, but the planet as a whole. “I urge the Most Sustainable and Liveable Communities to actively innovate and develop networking and communication platforms to enhance the effectiveness of our entrepreneurs, organization leaders and government officials. We need nation builders to respond to the global trend of sustainability and the urgent need for climate action and compassing climate change mitigation and adaptation measures, land use planning, reducing carbon emissions and disaster risk reduction and response. Let us collaborate to build sustainable and climate-resilient communities and cities across the Philippines and around the world,” VP Duterte said in a statement. Guest of honors Senators Francis Tolentino and Win Gatchalian graced the event as guest of honors while Public Attorneys Office chief Dr. Persida Acosta, Department of Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Serafin P. Baretto Jr. and MMDA Task Force Special Operations chief Edison Nebrija as guest speakers. Philippine National Police Chief PGen. Benjamin Acorda Jr., together with Dr. Acosta and Nebrija, headlined this year’s roster of awardees as winners of “Public Servants of the Year - Excellence in Government” award. For elected officials, Rep. Michael Romero of 1-PACMAN Party-List, Rep. Jolo Revilla of 1st District of Cavite, Rep. Ernix Dionisio of Manila 1st District, Deputy Majority Leader Rep. Wilter Palma of Zamboanga Sibugay 1st District, Deputy Majority Leader Rep. Jam Baronda of Iloilo City Lone District, Rep. Rida Robes of City of San Jose Del Monte Lone District, Rep. Maan Teodoro of Marikina City 1st District and Rep. Shernee Tan Tambut of Kusug Tausug Party List topbilled the “Awarded Congressmen and Congresswomen of the Year.” Meanwhile, governors of Davao del Norte and Capiz Edwin Jubahib and Fredenil Castro, respectively, also received recognition while city and municipal Mayors Arturo Robes (San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan), Michael Marcos Keon (Laoag City), Marjorie Perales (Toledo City), John Dalipe (Zamboanga City), and Agatha Cruz (Guiguinto, Bulacan), likewise took home awards for their competence and leadership. Davao Del Norte is this year’s “Most Sustainable and Liveable Province in the Philippines” as the cities of Tayabas, Kidapawan, Toledo and Calapan were recognized as “Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Cities in the Philippines.” Miss World Philippines Organization was recognized as “Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Organization” as IAM Worldwide was recognized as “Certified Most Sustainable and Liveable Company in the Philippines.” Also part of the gathering was the launching and presentation of the Nation Builders and Mosliv Awards Volume IV publication which features this year’s awardees and their accomplishments and programs towards nation-building and sustainable and inclusive development. Visit www.sustainability-standards.org or facebook.com/NationBuildersAndMoslivAwards. The post Nation-builders cited for sustainability efforts appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Angara says Frasco deserves a chance after ‘Love the Philippines’ fiasco
Senators have differing opinions on the controversies surrounding the newly launched “Love the Philippines’ campaign by the Department of Tourism. Senator Sonny Angara said the recent video mess “should not diminish” the accomplishments made by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco in promoting the country to the world. Angara also commended Frasco for swiftly terminating the DoT's contract with advertising agency, DDB Philippines, for more promotional videos. "Clearly there were issues with what was presented by the advertising agency, but what is important is that Sec. Frasco acted immediately to address the issue and ensured that no public funds were wasted for this purpose," he said. Angara added that Frasco should be given a chance to redeem herself, citing the latter’s efforts to revive the country’s tourism industry hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic. "What the DOT has done over the past two years following the pandemic has been remarkable and with Sec. Frasco leading the charge in declaring the Philippines open for tourists, I am confident that Philippine tourism will be able to reach new heights and the world will see the many reasons to Love the Philippines,” he said. According to Angara, the DoT recorded over 2 million international visitor arrivals in the country from January to the middle of May this year,—which already breached the department’s 1.7 million visitor target for the year. For the period of January to April, the DOT recorded P168.2 billion in inbound visitor receipts, which represents a 782 percent increase from the P19.1 billion in tourism revenues generated over the same period last year. Under the leadership of Sec. Frasco, Angara noted that the Philippines has received six nominations in the World Travel Awards Asia namely: Asia's Leading Island Destination; Asia's Leading Beach Destination; Asia's Leading Dive Destination; Intramuros as Asia's Leading Tourist Attraction; Cebu as Asia's Leading Wedding Destination; and the DoT as Asia's Leading Tourist Board. Angara also cited the move of the DoT to develop the Philippines as a health and wellness tourism hub—an idea that he has been pushing for some time already. The Philippines was also recently elected as vice president of the 25th General Assembly of the United Nations World Tourism Organization and chairman of the Commission for East Asia and the Pacific. Meanwhile, Senator Jinggoy Estrada lauded the DoT’s move against the advertising agency saying that its prompt response and responsible handling of the situation deserves recognition. “Mistakes happen but it is how we respond and rectify them that truly matters…The DOT exemplified accountability and commitment to learning from this incident,” he said. Estrada believes that the DoT’s acknowledgment of the gaffe and taking immediate steps to rectify the situation “demonstrated” the government’s dedication to maintaining the integrity of our tourism industry. “Understandably, any campaign of this magnitude may face criticisms and differing opinions. Yet, how Sec. Frasco's handling of the issues confronting the DoT is both admirable and necessary,” said Estrada. “It is through proactive measures that we can continue to promote the Philippines as a premier tourist destination while ensuring accuracy and responsible marketing practices," he added. The post Angara says Frasco deserves a chance after ‘Love the Philippines’ fiasco appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
More LGUs urged to establish bike lanes
Interior Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. urged local government units on Thursday to promote best practices in traffic management in their jurisdictions. He cited the need to promote active transportation and emulate the best practices of the LGU recipients of last year’s National Bike Lane Awards. “We constantly encourage our local governments to provide means for active transportation, such as protected bike lanes, to help alleviate traffic congestion and promote sustainable mobility,” Abalos said. “The LGU Bike Lane awardees who made it happen in their communities can serve as great inspiration for us,” he stressed. Last year’s Bike Lane Awardees, Iloilo City, Quezon City, and Mandaue City, presented their experiences and the problems they had in building bike lanes in their communities during the “National Bike Day Awards: Knowledge Sharing” Webinar on Tuesday. Alaminos City and Pasig City, as well as finalists Baguio City and Taguig City, also shared their projects on establishing safe and accessible bike lanes and pedestrian infrastructure. DILG Memo Circular 2020-100 encourages all LGUs to promote and make available active transportation as a means of supporting people’s mobility within their respective regions of authority. The post More LGUs urged to establish bike lanes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Sandiganbayan affirms ex-Biliran execs’ guilt
The Sandiganbayan Third Division has dismissed a motion filed by an ex-Biliran mayor and 12 others to overturn the court’s January guilty verdict in connection with the anomalous procurement of P8 million in medicines and medical supplies in 2010. In a 20-page resolution, the Sandiganbayan cited lack of merit in thumbing down all 13 motions of the defendants to reconsider the courts ruling, which found them guilty of violating Republic Act 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. Charged with graft were erstwhile Maripipi mayor Noel Albelda; ex-bids and awards committee chairperson Wilma Elairon; vice chairperson Marietta Campollo; committee members Amelia Bacolod and Sonia Alavera; technical working group chairperson Julio Cairo Jr.; TWG members Sergio Mejarito and Tito Cairo; ex-municipal accountant Michelle Quinte; ex-municipal health officer Mary Grace Llever; state auditor Genelito Balila; and private defendants Jerome Capuyan and Cherel Serato who represented Suremeds Marketing. The anti-corruption court handed them jail terms of from six to 10 years. They were also meted the accessory penalty of perpetual disqualification from holding public office. Filed by the Ombudsman in 2017, the case stemmed from the municipal government’s award of a contract to private firm Suremeds for the supply of medicine and other medical equipment amounting to P7.99 million despite several substantial lapses in the procurement process, including irregularities in the dates appearing in the bidding documents. The procurement was funded by the Priority Development Assistance Fund, or pork barrel, of then-Biliran Representative Glenn Chong. State prosecutors also found other procurement irregularities, such as the conduct of a pre-bid conference prior to the issuance of bidding documents, and the sudden change in the date of opening of bids. It was raised while the project was awarded to Suremeds despite its non-submission of performance security. In denying the motion, the anti-graft court said the concerted efforts of all the accused public officials from the start of the procurement process down to its payment to the preferred supplier in connivance with Suremeds through its proprietor, Capuyan, and representative, Serato, were very evident. “The Court is aware that a violation of the procurement laws does not ipso facto lead to a violation of RA 3019. In the present case, however, the prosecution has established not only the defects in the procurement procedure but also the alleged gross inexcusable negligence and manifest partiality on the part of the herein accused,” it said. The post Sandiganbayan affirms ex-Biliran execs’ guilt appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»