Monthly Archives

December 2024

News, Tech

On World Food Day 2024, the Globe joins the worldwide call to action promoting employee volunteerism and the Hapag Movement to combat hunger

Globe employee volunteers in Cebu City

In honor of World Food Day 2024, Globe reaffirmed its dedication to combating food insecurity in light of the nation’s rising hunger rates, driven by the global demand for “Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future—Leave No One Behind.”

Globe has given vital food assistance to people and families experiencing involuntary hunger, particularly Indigenous Peoples (IP) groups, through its Hapag Movement and Employee Volunteering Engagement Program.

According to the most recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) poll, 6.1% of Filipinos experience severe hunger and 16.8% experience moderate hunger. Low-income areas are disproportionately affected by the crisis, which is especially noticeable in Mindanao and the Visayas, where percentages have almost doubled.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Globe rallied its employees and partners to deliver relief to those affected, fostering a culture of active community service and encouraging its workforce to create positive change.  

In response, 480 employees joined a food repacking marathon at The Globe Tower together with Rise Against Hunger PH. This collective effort produced 3,060 food packs that benefitted 18,360 individuals in places devastated by recent typhoons.

Employee volunteers in Cebu City assisted in packing and distributing food supplies to 220 families at the Cebu City Operation Second Chance Center (CCOSCC) and Balay Samaritano, a collaboration between Globe and the Ayala Foundation.

“Globe’s commitment to nation-building is truly inspiring. Their employees’ dedication to volunteering to help our communities is commendable. Together, Ayala Foundation and Globe can make a significant impact in addressing hunger and improving lives,” said Marlito Cabigas, Senior Associate for VisMin, Corporate Citizenship & Volunteerism, Ayala Foundation.

Globe employee volunteers in Davao City

Likewise, in partnership with Tzu Chi Foundation Davao, Globe employees supported the Sto. Niño Central Elementary School in Talaingod, Davao del Norte, providing food packs and cybersecurity education to 150 parents, including IP members, while facilitating SIM distribution to promote digital inclusion.

“Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines is truly grateful for this partnership. This initiative fosters inclusivity, particularly as we focus on our Indigenous Peoples (IPs) brothers and sisters here in Davao. Tzu Chi consistently supports such partnerships; by collaborating with like-minded organizations like Globe, we can achieve significant progress in creating a Globe of Good.” -Mine Heart B. Tantoy, RSW, Tzu Chi Davao Social Welfare Officer

“Our World Food Day initiatives are an extension of Hapag Movement’s goal of addressing hunger, especially in communities hit hardest by disasters and poverty,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer. “By mobilizing our employees and collaborating with trusted partners, we aim to provide immediate relief while promoting long-term, sustainable development in the communities we serve.”  

To reinforce its dedication to volunteering and to make it simpler for staff members to find and sign up for volunteer opportunities, Globe recently developed and launched its #GlobeofGood Volunteering platform.

Globe, a socially conscious business, is committed to strengthening communities through worthwhile and long-lasting projects, inspiring everyone to support the Hapag Movement and expand its influence.

To find out more about Globe’s initiatives to reduce hunger, go to https://www.globe.com.ph/GlobeOfGood.

Lifestyle, Tech

New Year’s Eve festivities in 5G cities are powered by Globe

Brings reliable connectivity, exciting activities to countdowns in BGC, Ayala Triangle

Globe is pleased to announce that it would be sponsoring the largest New Year’s Eve celebrations in Makati City’s Ayala Triangle and BGC, Taguig City, on the 5th.

Globe is dedicated to giving you an amazing experience as we enter 2025 together, complete with thrilling performances, thrilling gifts, and a smooth network connection to keep you in touch with your loved ones.

“At Globe, our customers are at the heart of everything we do. We are dedicated to empowering Filipinos and supporting the evolving needs of families, by providing innovative digital services that enrich lives and connect people. We want our customers to experience this at the New Year celebrations in 5G cities– BGC in Taguig and Makati City– through our reliable 5G network and exciting activities we prepared,” said Darius Delgado, Globe’s Chief Commercial Officer.

Get ready for a night of non-stop fun and excitement! Ten lucky customers will have the chance to win VIP Standing tickets to NYE AT THE 5TH by simply redeeming two (2) Rewards points via G Swipe on the GlobeOne app.  

Enjoy the festivities without a hitch, thanks to Globe’s reliable connectivity support ensuring seamless communication. Stay connected and share your special New Year’s Eve moments with friends and family online, thanks to Globe’s reliable network, powered by its expansive 5G coverage.

And to ensure you capture every unforgettable moment, GlobeOne app users can get their photos professionally taken for FREE at the MomentsLab Photo Studio. Just show your GlobeOne app profile and strike a pose! You can even take home a printed copy of your photo by making a transaction within the app.  

Visit Globe booths during the New Year Countdown in Makati to take advantage of Globe’s dependable connectivity. Using Globe’s 5G connectivity, those who were unable to attend in person could watch the much-anticipated event livestreamed on the Make It Makati Facebook page on December 31.

But that’s not all! Donate to The Hapag Movement and use our interactive “Forward Meter” procedure to help us pay it forward. To fill the meter, get your friends together, cheer as loudly as you can, and get special stuff.

Come celebrate New Year’s Eve with us in the 5th BGC and Ayala Triangle as we boldly enter 2025!

Explore Globe’s website at https://www.globe.com.ph/.

Entertainment

Playtime hosts a media Thanksgiving event to commemorate Milestone Year

At its first Media Thanksgiving event, which was recently hosted at The Hub Greenfield District in Mandaluyong City, PlayTime, the Philippines’ fastest-growing online entertainment gaming platform, announced its accomplishments.

PlayTime is expanding its reach and visibility with the announcement of legendary comedian and host Vic “Bossing” Sotto as its Brand Ambassador. to reach a monthly average growth rate of 30–40%, which translates into an increase of over 20 million subscribers and 2 million daily active gamers.

It was an epic night of celebrating triumph and showing gratitude for a successful year. We greatly enjoyed the night, full of activities, scrumptious food, and a night full of proud accomplishments for the whole team. The theme for the party is an 80’s vibe; that’s why it adds to my memorable experience during the night.

“We are thankful for a fruitful year. We had the opportunity to provide unparalleled online entertainment for Filipinos, accessible anytime and anywhere. We are also thrilled to promote local arts and entertainment in the digital space and through on-ground activations. At the same time, we are deeply committed to creating a meaningful and positive impact to the community through our CSR initiatives,” stated Jay Sabale, PlayTime Senior PR Manager.

PlayTime also continues to provide the best online entertainment experience with guaranteed highest cashback, which is up to 2% higher than all other licensed platforms, guaranteed withdrawal in 10 minutes, with a Php1,000 guarantee for any delayed orders. First-time players will also get to experience free scatters in the games.

Fun and Games at the Event

PlayTime’s accomplishments on its first year milestones were celebrated with the press through exciting games, loads of prizes and special surprises highlighting Pasko sa Playtime’s spirit of giving. The event was made even more epic for the guests as they danced and sang to the energetic music of The Authority Band, led by its iconic 90s vocalist Juan Miguel Salvador.

Amped Up and Engaging Ways to Play

There is more to look forward to in 2025 as PlayTime is set to launch new and exciting offerings for playing with family and friends anytime and anywhere around the world.

“PlayTime will continue to innovate and introduce new and exciting ways to play in the near future as PlayTime will enter the bingo scene next year,” shared Sabale.  

Community Building through CSR

“Our milestones inspire us to share good tidings and take on the responsibility of giving back to the community that has supported and helped us reach this point. PlayTime will remain steadfast in helping the community through its comprehensive corporate social responsibility efforts,” shared Sabale.

PlayTime paid it forward to the community with various CSR initiatives under the PlayTime CARES (Community Action, Relief, Empowerment, and Sustainability) Program with its slogan ‘Play With a Purpose’. Its partnership with Gawad Kalinga in building playgrounds in the GK communities is their way to promote face-to-face active play and solidarity among diverse members of the community. Also, through PlayTime CARES, PlayTime was able to establish a partnership with TV5’s Alagang Kapatid Foundation for their rehabilitation programs. For the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Walang Gutom 2027 Program, PlayTime is their official sponsor for the creation and distribution of eco-friendly grocery bags.

Support for Philippine Arts and Entertainment

Keeping its commitment to support the entertainment industry, PlayTime is participating in the 50th Metro Manila Film Festival which showcases Filipino creativity in storytelling through quality films. As the official partner of MMFF, PlayTime will amplify the movie festival’s experience through exciting activations, special promotions, and exclusive content for its users.

Meanwhile, PlayTime’s participation in VivaMax’s ‘Project X’ fashion show reinforced its aim in supporting artistic expression through fashion and entertainment.

Additionally, PlayTime was successful in establishing alliances with important institutions. Reputable organizations and major events like Binibining Pilipinas 2024, PMPC Star Awards for Film and Music, Beer Below Zero (BBZ), Preview Ball 2024, Tribute to Soldiers, Fireworks Circus Music Festival, Reyes Cup, Juan Karlos Music, Akon Music, and Bumper to Bumper Car Show were among the noteworthy partnerships.

PlayTime sees 2025 as a better year for the industry as a whole, not just for its players, as it continues to set the standard for high-quality, varied entertainment and games and moves forward with projects that benefit the community.

Through GCash, Maya, or www.playtime.ph, you may simply enjoy PlayTime, an unmatched online entertainment experience where every moment is exciting and every peso puts you one step closer to winning big and making more money.

Automotive

For Toyota customers, happiness is on the way this December

Amazing deals on the Corolla Cross, Yaris Cross, and more await

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) keeps spreading holiday pleasure by offering discounts on its well-liked cars.

Take the family on a Christmas vacation in a brand-new Corolla Cross! Use the Pay Low option to purchase the 1.8 V HEV model with a PHP 264,450 down payment. With no chattel mortgage and 60-month payment terms, this option gives clients free insurance for the first year, free LTO registration for three years, and down payments as little as 15%.

Customers will receive a PHP 60,000 discount on their new unit if they choose to pay with cash.

The Pay Light option, which provides clients with affordable monthly plans with a 50% down payment at 60 months amortization, also offers the 1.8 G HEV model for a monthly payment of PHP 15,796.

For those looking for a first car as a way to celebrate the year’s milestones, the Yaris Cross 1.5 V CVT in Scarlet Red is available at a downpayment of PHP 195,300 under the Pay Low option. Those who will pay in straight cash, meanwhile, will get a PHP 50,000 discount.

The 1.5 G CVT variant can also be availed at a monthly payment of PHP 13,220 under the Pay Light option.

Customers looking for an electrified daily drive can consider the S HEV variant of the Yaris Cross. This variant offers a PHP 100,000 discount for those who will purchase through straight cash.

Free Periodic Maintenance

With more people on the road for the holidays it is recommended that vehicles are always in top shape to prevent any accidents.

To help customers get into the habit on bringing in their vehicle for maintenance, Toyota is offering a FREE periodic maintenance service (PMS) until the 20,000 KM check-up for all brand-new Raize, Veloz, Rush, and select variants of the Vios, Avanza, Innova, Fortuner and Hilux.

The free PMS may be availed within 36 months from the release date of the vehicle as long as customers don’t miss any maintenance from 1,000 to 20,000 KM.

Trade-in Rebate, Insurance and Warranty

It’s the season of giving, so what better way to surprise loved ones than with a new and elevated ride. Toyota owners who will trade in their Vios, Innova, Fortuner or Hilux for a brand-new Wigo, Yaris Cross or Zenix (Q HEV not included) will get a PHP 25,000 rebate. Meanwhile, those who opt for a new Rush, Raize, Avanza, Veloz, Fortuner or Hilux will get a PHP 15,000 rebate.

This rebate can be used as a cash discount for the purchase of the brand-new unit. It may also be used to purchase Toyota Genuine Accessories.

All brand-new Wigo, Veloz, and select variants of the Vios, Avanza, Innova, Fortuner and Hilux are also entitled to a free one-year comprehensive insurance provided by Toyota Insure when purchased during the promo period.

The free one-year insurance covers 24/7 personal accident, passenger auto personal accident, three-year CPTL, own damage (OD), loss/theft, excess bodily injury (EBI), property damage (PD), acts of nature (AON), and includes emergency roadside assistance.

All brand-new Vios G and XLE bought from authorized Toyota dealerships also get a warranty coverage of five years or 150,000 KM, whichever comes first.

With Toyota, make every journey in December a joyous occasion. The promotion is only valid from December 12 until December 31, 2024. Visit this link to see the complete terms, deals, and models involved: https://toyota.com.ph/promos/ToyotaHolideals 

Permit No. for DTI Fair Trade. 2024’s FTEB-209493 Series

For the most recent information on Toyota Motor Philippines’ goods, services, and promotions, follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and X. You can also join the ToyotaPH community on Viber.

Fashion, Lifestyle

Uno Chaos Is Started by Skechers

A little chaos is inevitable when two iconic Skechers shoe styles are combined.

The Skechers Uno and D’Lites silhouettes are coming together for the first time in The Comfort Technology Company’s® more than three decades to develop the Skechers Uno Chaos, a line of high-end shoes that will be sold in a few Skechers retail locations across the country.

Fashionistas and sneakerheads alike will be able to put their best trend-driven, and comfortable, foot forward this season – undoubtedly the height of fashion season – stepping out in the new Uno Chaos. Y2K-inspired style isn’t going anywhere, thanks to the Chaos’ more modern take on the always beloved D’Lites upper, which is crafted from a mix of mesh, suede, and leather materials. All of this sits atop a reimagined Skechers Uno outsole, which replaces the best-selling silhouette’s existing visible dual Skech-Air® midsole with a chunky, translucent, shock-absorbing one that runs the length of the sneaker, giving a funky, futuristic and fashion-forward vibe to the shoe. And as comfortable as they are chic – the Uno Chaos is colored in eye-catching shades of lavender and sage green– each pair is engineered with a signature Skechers Air-Cooled Memory Foam® cushioned comfort insole.

When you enter the new Uno Chaos this season, be prepared to raise some commotion—or chaos, to be exact. The Uno Chaos are the ideal shoes to complement any Fashion Month ensemble and are available at a few Skechers retail locations both locally and globally.

SKECHERS UNO CHAOS

**Available in women’s sizes**

The Skechers Uno Chaos will transform both your shoe collection and your sense of style. With its lace-up mesh, suede, and leather upper, thick translucent Skech-Air® midsole, and signature Skechers Air-Cooled Memory Foam® cushioned comfort footbed, the redesigned version of two classic, fan-favorite silhouettes—the Skechers Uno and D’Lites—features a fashion-forward design.

Entertainment

Pinoy rock queens get back together at Newport World Resorts for a performance of “TANAW: The Repeat”

Pinoy rock queens Acel Bisa, Aia de Leon, Barbie Almalbis, Hannah Romawac, Kitchie Nadal, and Lougee Basabas are re-running their sold-out show, TANAW, in response to fan demand. The eagerly awaited performance will begin at 8:00 PM on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at the Newport Performing Arts Theater in Pasay City.

The OPM powerhouse women, who are renowned for their pivotal roles in the music industry of the late 1990s and early 2000s, will come together for a night of their greatest hits, joint ventures, and brand-new songs. To give their classic songs a new, symphonic perspective, TANAW: The Repeat will also include creative arrangements of a few songs, performed with a mini-orchestra conducted by The Manila String Machine.

This second edition of the TANAW series serves as a heartfelt celebration of the enduring bond between these iconic artists and their dedicated fans. Through decades of navigating personal challenges, triumphs, and growth, these women have remained pillars of the OPM scene. The concert offers a chance to give back to the fans whose unwavering support has been a constant source of strength.

The title TANAW (translated as “to gaze” or “to look out”) speaks to the reflective nature of the event—whether looking back in admiration or gazing forward with anticipation. For these singer-songwriters, this reunion is not only an opportunity to perform together again but to share new and meaningful musical expressions, embodying both their individual journeys and their collective sisterhood.

Following their incredible first reunion concert and its Thanksgiving follow-up, this is the third time these six solo artists will perform together. From their successful solo careers to their time as frontwomen of some of the most significant OPM bands of the late 1990s and early 2000s, these women have emerged as the actual queens of alt-rock. Their impact endures throughout decades, as evidenced by their sold-out tours, number-one albums, and devoted fan base.

In partnership with GNN, Newport World Resorts is hosting this event.

You can purchase tickets for TANAW The Repeat at https://tanawtherepeat.helixpay.ph.

Platinum: PHP 6,300

(Includes soundcheck pass, center-front seats, premium meet and greet, pre-signed posters)

SVIP: PHP 5,300

(Includes meet and greet, pre-signed posters)

VIP: PHP 4,500

Gold: PHP 3,500

Silver: PHP 2,500

Bronze: PHP 1,800

Entertainment

Miguel Benjamin and Paolo Benjamin of Ben&Ben speak with Lin-Manuel Miranda, Barry Jenkins, and the Mufasa: The Lion King ensemble from Disney

The interview sessions with the duo, including the teaser posted by Walt Disney, have amassed more than 21 million views so far

Miguel Benjamin and Paolo Benjamin of Ben&Ben recently had the honor of speaking with the director and actors of Mufasa: The Lion King, the newest musical drama from Disney.

Disney Philippines encouraged the two vocalists from the well-known Filipino band to meet some of the most prominent people involved in the movie, such as composer Lin-Manuel Miranda and director Barry Jenkins.

Jenkins, renowned for his critically praised works like Moonlight and If Beale Street Could Talk, was available for an interview with Miguel and Paolo. They also got to know Miranda, the film’s award-winning composer, who gave them an inside look at how he came up with the songs for a tale as important as Mufasa: The Lion King.

Miranda offered a glimpse into his songwriting approach, explaining, “You just have to honor those impulses. Kind of like—you have these assignments, and you daydream, and you think about stuff, and you listen to stuff, until you have this sort of alchemy.” His words not only highlighted the magic behind the music but also underscored the collaborative spirit of the film.

For the Benjamin brothers, the opportunity was not just a professional milestone but a deeply personal one. Both twins grew up with a close bond that reflects the sibling dynamics explored in the movie.

In addition to speaking with the filmmakers, Miguel and Paolo interviewed the cast members, including Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and Tiffany Boone, who voice key characters in the film. The atmosphere was light-hearted and engaging, with Kelvin Harrison Jr. even prompting the duo to sing a few lines from their hit song “Leaves.” The impromptu performance left everyone in the room delighted.

The interview came at a busy time for Ben&Ben, who were in the middle of rehearsals for their sold-out concert, The Traveller Across Dimensions. However, when the opportunity to interview the Mufasa team came through, the duo didn’t hesitate. “We felt we could relate well to the theme of brotherhood portrayed in the film because of the fact that we’re twins and we grew up really close to each other, much like Mufasa and Taka,” shared Miguel Benjamin. “Also, the fact that the film involved such great storytellers in it, both in film and music, made it an opportunity of a lifetime.”

Paolo echoed his brother’s sentiments, reflecting on the honor of interviewing the Mufasa team and representing the Philippines. “We felt that representing our country in a special interview such as this was a big task to fulfill, but we tried to give it our best by coming up with questions that would allow the cast and the directors the freedom to be just themselves while sharing more about the film, their insights, and their memorable experiences working on it. What we noticed the most, though, is how bonded the entire team behind the film is. It’s like they’re family already.”

The interview sessions quickly became a viral sensation, amassing over 5 million views across social media platforms in less than a day. This does not include the interview teaser with Miguel and Paolo six days ago on Walt Disney’s Facebook page, which has already garnered nearly 16 million views to date.

Mufasa: The Lion King combines photorealistic computer-generated visuals with live-action production techniques. Barry Jenkins is the director, Adele Romanski and Mark Ceryak are the producers, and Peter Tobyansen is the executive producer. The film is expected to enthrall viewers with its poignant narrative and memorable music, which includes songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Mufasa: The Lion King promises to be a memorable cinematic experience as the holidays draw near.

Walt Disney Pictures is now showing Mufasa: The Lion King in all Philippine theaters around the country.

Lifestyle, Travel

Experience Toyama’s Winter Wonders

Photo courtesy of VisitToyama

In the winter, Japan, with its tranquil, snow-covered locations, becomes a wonderland. Toyama stands out among its winter treasures as a sanctuary for people who appreciate the beauty of the season. This coastal prefecture provides access to snow-covered regions of Japan and is only a two to three-hour journey from Tokyo via the Hokuriku Shinkansen.

We have selected the must-see locations in Toyama for a unique winter experience, from the picture-perfect towns of Gokayama to the tranquil Unazuki Onsen. So prepare to explore this polar paradise by packing your bags and grabbing your gloves!

Gokayama

Gokayama, tucked within the mountains of Toyama, feels like a scene from a snow globe. Known for its 40 small villages, two of which—Ainokura and Suganuma—are UNESCO World Heritage sites, the area comes alive in winter, covered in a thick blanket of snow. These steeply pitched roofs, designed to handle heavy snowfall, are surrounded by quiet, pristine landscapes that invite you to pause and take it all in. Accessible by bus from JR Takaoka Station, Gokayama is your gateway to experiencing Japan’s rich cultural heritage backdropped by white topography. During winter, the villages of Ainokura and Suganuma host magical lighting events, illuminating their snow-covered scenery and creating a serene winter spectacle

Photo courtesy of VisitToyama

Amaharashi Coast

The Amaharashi Coast, stretching along Toyama Bay, offers a captivating mix of the rugged coastline and the marvelous Tateyama Mountain Range. In winter, the snow-dusted mountains create a stunning contrast against the crashing waves, which draw surfers to the area. This peaceful and dramatic landscape makes the Amaharashi Coast a perfect place for those who want to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty, whether it’s the quiet of the beach or the energy of the sea.

Photo courtesy of VisitToyama

Toyama Castle

Toyama Castle offers a different kind of winter charm. Located in the city center, the castle stands as a reminder of the region’s history and culture. Surrounded by a peaceful park, the scene becomes even more magical in winter, when snow decorates the traditional architecture and reflects in the still waters of the moat. Originally built in the 16th century, the castle offers visitors a glimpse into Japan’s feudal era not far from the city.

Photo courtesy of VisitToyama

Shogawa Gorge

For a tranquil yet stunning setting, head to Shogawa Gorge. The dramatic cliffs and clear waters of the Shogawa River take on a serene, icy beauty during winter. Scenic boat rides and walking trails provide picture-perfect views of snow-covered landscapes. Just a 70-minute bus ride from Takaoka Station via the JR Hokuriku Main Line, this hidden gem is a peaceful retreat into nature, ideal for those seeking quiet beauty.

Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization
 

Unazuki Onsen

After a day of snowy escapades, unwind at Unazuki Onsen, a cozy hot spring town calmly situated in Toyama’s mountains. Located along the Kurobe River, this resort is the ultimate spot to soak in thermal waters while admiring the white-capped view. Traditional ryokan inns add to the charm, making Unazuki Onsen a perfect mix of relaxation and nature. It’s easily accessible by train from Toyama City, so you can enjoy its rejuvenating warmth without hassle. In addition to its famous footbaths, Unazuki offers visitors the chance to purchase handmade necklaces crafted by local artisans, a perfect souvenir to remember your serene escape.

Photo courtesy of VisitToyama
 

Toyama’s Traditional Seafood

Experience the true flavors of Toyama, where fresh seafood from Toyama Bay like white shrimp and firefly squid take center stage. Don’t miss the local Winter Yellowtail–known as the “king of winter delicacies”–paired perfectly with the region’s smooth craft sake. Each dish reflects Toyama’s deep connection to the land and sea, offering a tidal taste of the area’s local heritage and natural resources.

Avoid the tropical heat this winter and enjoy the serene enchantment of Toyama’s snow-capped scenery instead. Toyama exemplifies winter at its best, from the majestic Gokayama to the majestic Tateyama Mountains’ snow walls. The ideal snowy wonderland is created when you combine the picturesque scenery of Shogawa Gorge with the comfortable sanctuaries of Unazuki Onsen.

Explore the best-kept winter secrets in Japan—Toyama is just waiting to astound you.

Food, Lifestyle

The Jollibee Group Foundation and DepEd will extend the school-based feeding program’s central kitchen model

Jollibee Group re: Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF), the social development arm of Jollibee Group, recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Education (DepEd) for the adoption of the central kitchen model for School-based Feeding Program (SBFP), which aims to alleviate hunger among school-aged children. DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara led the signing ceremonies with JGF President Gisela Tiongson at the DepEd office last December 11, 2024.
 

In an effort to reduce hunger among school-aged children, the Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF), the social development division of Jollibee Group, recently inked a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Education (DepEd) to implement the central kitchen model for the School-based Feeding Program (SBFP). On December 11, 2024, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara presided over the signing ceremonies with JGF President Gisela Tiongson at the DepEd office.

As part of the aforementioned collaboration, JGF will support the development of capacity to share its knowledge of executing the central kitchen model with local government agencies, partner public schools, and local partners through the JGF Busog, Lusog, Talino (BLT) Program. In the upcoming year and a half, thousands of students from Mindanao, Visayas, and Luzon are anticipated to gain from this collaboration.

The Foundation first launched the BLT Program in 2007, recognizing the need to address hunger, a key factor contributing to low school attendance and high drop-out rates among public elementary students. In 2016, with DepEd implementing the School-based Feeding Program (SBFP) nationwide, JGF transitioned its approach by focusing on the establishment of central kitchens, reinforcing its commitment to promoting better access to food. To date it has spearheaded the creation of 41 central kitchens nationwide, providing continuous support to DepEd’s SBFP . Since its inception, the program has served meals to over 270,000 students from the direct feeding approach and the shift to establishing central kitchens.  

“The BLT Kitchens centralize the preparation and distribution of meals, feeding thousands of students with less time and effort,” said JGF President Gisela Tiongson. “By working with DepEd and the support of the local government units, private institutions and parent volunteers in utilizing the central kitchen model, we can help mitigate hunger and give students better chances of continuing their education.”    

Empowering facilitators

The Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF) will also support the development of training centers for central kitchen management. Under the partnership, 15 of JGF’s existing BLT partner schools will serve as learning hubs for organizations aiming to establish their own central kitchens.

JGF will produce manuals and educational videos for DepEd staff and BLT partners to guarantee consistent and long-lasting implementation. These materials will enhance the initiative’s long-term success by aiding in process standardization.

Under the said partnership, JGF will provide capacity building support to DepEd personnel based on its experience in implementing the Busog, Lusog, Talino (BLT) Program.
 

Nine DepEd Central and Regional staff have so far taken part in a four-day training conducted by JGF. These qualified individuals will act as coaches, liaising with local government entities to establish central kitchens for community and school meals. In order to guarantee the sustainability and impact of these central kitchens, they will also offer technical advice on how to put them up and run them.

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com

Automotive

“Start Your Impossible” National Coastal Cleanup and Mangrove Planting Day is spearheaded by Toyota Motor Philippines and Ernie Gawilan

Filipino paralympic swimmer pushes for cleaner waters through collective action from volunteers from all over the country 

Ernie Gawilan takes a group photo with volunteers from Toyota Motor Philippines, Toyota Davao group and representatives from Samal’s City Environment and Natural Resources Office 

Last December 14, 2024, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) and Paralympic swimmer Ernie Gawilan successfully wrapped up the “Start Your Impossible” National Coastal Cleanup and Mangrove Planting Day. The event, which took place in 33 different sites throughout the Philippines, supported Gawilan’s social commitment as a Global Team Toyota Athlete (GTTA) by encouraging communities to combat coastal pollution and preserve marine ecosystems.

Under the direction of the local government unit and environment departments, the event, which involved 1,302 volunteers from Toyota Motor Philippines and the Toyota dealer network, emphasized the need of protecting marine ecology and addressing the urgent problem of coastal pollution.

The volunteers gathered 789 bags of garbage and plastic waste. 10,354 mangrove seedlings were planted in conjunction with the cleanup activities, which helped to restore vital mangrove forests in a number of coastal villages.  

Volunteers are seen collecting trash and planting mangrove trees along the muddy shorelines 

Ernie Gawilan, an Asian Para Games gold medalist and a proud Davaoeño, played an instrumental role in rallying the community for a cleaner future. This event holds dear to him, as Samal Island is the place which shaped him to become the athlete that he is today.  

This activity is part of Ernie’s project under Toyota’s global “Start Your Impossible” program which empowers athletes not only to pursue sports excellence but also to become advocates for social good. For Gawilan, championing cleaner waters and driving environmental awareness have become central to his mission of creating meaningful change beyond sports. 

Ernie Gawilan joins in on planting mangrove seedlings 

“Nagpapasalamat ako sa Toyota family sa pagtulong sa akin sa pagtatanim at coastal cleanup ngayong araw (I am grateful to the Toyota family for helping me with the tree planting and the coastal cleanup today),” Ernie Gawilan shared in his speech at the Samal Island site of the nationwide activity. “Sana marami akong na-inspire, at pagtulungan natin na ma-preserve ang kalikasan natin, lalo na ang dagat, kasi dito po ako nagsimula (I hope I have inspired many, and let us work together to preserve our environment, especially the ocean, because this is where I started),” he added.  

Volunteers, including Ernie Gawilan, continue to pick up the trash along the shorelines of Samal, Davao 

“Ernie is a dual hero, we have also been working alongside him in championing cleaner waters through various cleanup and planting projects” Shared Elijah Sue Marcial, TMP Vice President for Network Sales & Systems Cluster. “This advocacy was chosen personally by Ernie as a way to give back to the communities that supported him toward his dreams” She added. 

Three mangrove seedlings must be planted to allow at least one to thrive 

“All of us who work for Toyota are very proud that Toyota has always worked with stakeholders and communities to give back and to Inspire,” Shared Denise Lim, President of Toyota Davao Inc. “Today, we are here to continue on Toyota’s Environmental efforts together with a truly remarkable and inspiring guest of honor,” She added. 

Additionally, a volunteer from Toyota Davao City Inc. shared his thoughts on Ernie’s Mission for cleaner waters: 

“Malaki and naiambag niya sa coastal cleanup at pagtatanim ng mga bakawan (He made a significant contribution to the coastal cleanup and the planting of mangroves),” A Volunteer from Toyota Davao City Inc. Shared. “Dahil sa kanyang dedikasyon at malasakit sa kalikasan, nagawa nating sama-samang maglinis at magtanim para sa mas maayos at mas luntian na hinaharap (Because of his dedication and care for the environment, we were able to clean up and plant together for a better and greener future),” he added.  

Toyota Albay group at Sitio Bagong Silong 

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