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Schneider Electric Introduces Safety-Focused, Circular-Ready MasterPacT MTZ Active Circuit Breakers, Revolutionizing Industry 4.0

  • Schneider Electric officially launches the MasterPacT MTZ Active in the Philippines, setting new benchmarks for energy safety, efficiency, and sustainability in local commercial industries such as buildings, healthcare, data centers, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
  • The MasterPacT MTZ Active is Schneider Electric’s latest flagship Air Circuit Breaker (ACB), designed to address daily operational challenges such as 24/7 uptime demands and rising energy costs.
  • It is a certified Green Premium™ product with over 30% circularity, designed for refurbishment and reduced waste.

During the recent launch of MasterPacT MTZ Active held at The Fifth at Rockwell, Makati City, Glen Dedicatoria, Business Director at Schneider Electric Philippines, highlighted the company’s approach to circularity and sustainability, advocating for power resiliency as a crucial component of Industry 4.0.

With the release of the MasterPacT MTZ Active, an air circuit breaker (ACB) technology that tackles problems like 24/7 uptime demands, rising energy costs, and urgent sustainability practices across industries like buildings, healthcare, data centers, manufacturing, and infrastructure, Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and automation, supports critical industries as the Philippines embraces digital transformation.

The MasterPacT MTZ Active, which has been developing ACB technology for more than 37 years, protects electrical systems from overloads and ground faults while offering immediate, configurable protection against short circuits.

“This advanced technology not only mitigates immediate energy challenges, but it also protects our industries from long-term climate risks and makes their operations more sustainable as it minimizes downtime risks, ensures business continuity while protecting critical systems from damage,” said Glen Dedicatoria, Business Director at Schneider Electric Philippines.

The Philippines has experienced an 11.2% rise in energy consumption in recent years, increasing from 106,115 gigawatt hours (GWh) in 2021 to 118,004 GWh in 2023, according to the Department of Energy. Faced alongside global sustainability demands, local industries are under pressure in meeting sustainability targets while maintaining high-performance business operations.

The MasterPacT MTZ Active addresses these challenges by:

  • Ensuring safety of maintenance operators against arc flash or sudden and intense bursts of electricity, which can cause serious occupational hazards, through the Energy Reduction Maintenance Setting (ERMS) built-in function.
  • Allowing quick and easy adjustment of protection settings to meet the system needs through the Intuitive Control Unit (Micrologic Trip Unit).
  • By scanning the QR code on the MasterPacT MTZ Active display window, users can quickly access outage root cause information, enabling safe and efficient power restoration. Additionally, it enables industries to monitor their energy consumption in real time.
  • Ensuring secure integration of advanced cybersecurity measures with the monitoring platforms through the new MicroLogic Trip Unit which features a passcode protection to prevent unauthorized adjustments to trip settings.

The MasterPacT MTZ Active is an air circuit breaker that enables real-time power monitoring and measurement to accelerate decarbonization among industries.

The MasterPacT MTZ Active is designed with sustainability in mind, enabling businesses to optimize energy efficiency and reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining high-performance standards. It is also certified as a Green Premium™ Product and has a circularity of over 30%, allowing industries to refurbish electrical systems rather than replace them and promoting resource conservation and sustainability.

This innovation underscores Schneider Electric’s vision to shift from a linear “take-make-waste” model to a circular economy, integrating circularity into its entire value chain, from product design and manufacturing to end-of-life management, ensuring business continuity and contributing to local economic growth.

“As industries undergo rapid digital transformation, the demand for better, longer-lasting solutions has never been stronger,” added Dedicatoria. “Circularity is no longer a choice but a must-do for industries seeking to minimize their waste and lessen their environmental impact.”

Schneider Electric, which was named one of the three worldwide Circularity Lighthouses by McKinsey and the World Economic Forum, has used creative circular practices to cut its carbon footprint by almost 513 million tons since 2017.

Go to this website here to learn more about the MasterPacT MTZ Active.

November 20, 2024 by
Lifestyle, Tech

Globe encourages digital safety and responsible AI use while commemorating G DAY with a school tour through the Digital Thumbprint Program

Carlo Santos, Globe Senior Director for Analytics and Stakeholder Engagement, speaks during the DTP Session at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila

As part of the annual G DAY celebration, Globe conducted a school tour to expand its Digital Thumbprint Program (DTP) to five schools around the country, reaffirming its commitment to fostering digital citizenship and online safety.

More than 1,000 students attended the training sessions, which were hosted at the University of Southern Mindanao, Bintawan National High School in Nueva Vizcaya, STI Caloocan, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina, and Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila.

The Digital Thumbprint Program is a series of capacity-building workshops organized by Globe that aim to empower students and communities by promoting responsible digital citizenship and raising awareness about online safety, digital discernment, cybersecurity, mental health and wellness, and the sustainable use of technology.

The need for such programs is urgent. The Philippines faces significant challenges with online sexual abuse and exploitation of children (OSAEC). Exacerbated by high internet usage, poverty rates, and advanced digital technologies, the country ranked second globally in cyber tip reports on child sexual abuse, with nearly 2.8 million incidents recorded by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) in 2022. The International Justice Mission estimates that one in 100 Filipino children has been trafficked for online exploitation.

Globe’s DTP initiative empowers students, teachers, and parents to proactively protect themselves and their communities from online risks, aligning with Globe’s mission to create a safer and more inclusive digital space. In 2023, Globe blocked over 404,730 malicious sites and links associated with child exploitation, illegal gambling, and online piracy — a 45% increase from the previous year — demonstrating its continued commitment to online safety.

In light of the increasing relevance of artificial intelligence (AI), Globe has expanded DTP to include discussions on AI ethics. The LinkedIn and Microsoft 2024 Annual Work Trend Index (WTI) study revealed that 71% of employers prefer candidates with AI skills, highlighting the need for students to understand and navigate AI responsibly.

The Globe team with students of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina at the recent DTP session held at the university.
 

At the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Marikina, 50 students from the College of Criminology participated in a session designed to provide them with skills to safeguard their communities from online dangers. This training supports their future roles in public safety, especially in combating cybercrime.

Students found the DTP Learning Hour helpful for raising awareness about online security. Key takeaways included avoiding scams by verifying emails, texts, and links, being cautious with public Wi-Fi, and thinking before clicking. They valued learning how to protect personal information and stay safe online.

Similarly, STI Caloocan welcomed 50 IT students, who, as part of their Foundation Day celebrations, learned about the importance of digital responsibility in their tech-driven careers.

Meanwhile, at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, 365 students from the College of Information Systems and Technology Management gained valuable insights about AI, helping them navigate the digital world and lead with integrity.

“Educating students on digital safety is essential as they prepare for a future where technology is deeply intertwined with everyday life,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer.

“Through our Digital Thumbprint Program, we aim to empower the youth to use technology responsibly and ethically, ensuring they are equipped for the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

As part of its broader efforts, Globe also participated in the University of Southern Mindanao’s Pasiklaban 2024, enhancing festivities with a special #GDayEveryday celebration. Informative sessions on Telco 101, WiFi 101, and the DTP helped students gain practical knowledge about the digital world.

In another G Day highlight, Globe visited Bintawan National High School, nestled in the mountains of Villaverde, Nueva Vizcaya, as a gesture of appreciation for the students’ commitment to education. The visit reinforced Globe’s belief that every child deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and dream big.

Globe added an interesting raffle with GFiber Prepaid contracts for the winners throughout the DTP sessions to further engage the students. These plans help the winners’ digital and academic endeavors by offering fiber-fast connectivity that is instantly deployed in their houses and has no lock-up time.

Go to the Globe website’s Digital Thumbprint Program DTP page to learn more about the program and its support of digital safety.

November 20, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

Countdown to Excellence: Southeast Asia’s 2nd Premier Business and Achiever Award 2024

As we prepare for the 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award 2024, be ready for yet another incredible evening of honoring and celebrating! We are excited to announce that this year’s event is expected to be even more magnificent than the last one, which was made possible by our valued media partners and hardworking organizers, La Visual Corporation & SIRBISU Channel.

Celebrating Success with Our Media Partners: 

The steadfast assistance and collaboration of our distinguished media partners enabled the Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award 2023 to be a great success. Business Insight, Business Mirror, Business World, Philippines Graphic, Hataw, and GMA7 to Malaya!Each of our media partners, including Consumer Asia Magazine and many others, was essential in expanding the event’s audience and influence. They made the occasion a huge success by bringing attention to the outstanding accomplishments of our awardees through their comprehensive coverage and promotion.

The 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Awards 2024 recognize outstanding individuals, CEO, entrepreneurs, public servants, artists and celebrities who have made significant contributions to their respective fields.  This year’s awardees include Salvacion Paparon (Golden Achiever) as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Roll Up Door Business Owner. Wej Cudiamat (Golden Achiever) as the Premier Achiever Remarkable Male Correspondent. Carlo Lorenzo as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Male Event Host of the Year. Jamin Lim (Golden Achiever) as the Premier Achiever Excellent Photographer in the Philippines. Carmela Betonio as the Premier Achiever Excellent Recording Artist. Braggy Braganza (Golden Achiever) as the Premier Achiever Remarkable Radio/TV Host in the Philippines. Lae Manego (Golden Achiever) as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Multi-Awarded Pop Rock Singer Artist. Dennis Antennor Jr. (Golden Achiever) as the Premier Achiever Outstanding News Broadcaster of the year. Annabelle Surara (Golden Achiever) as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Radyo Agila Host. Shirley B. Belangel CPA, MBA (Golden Achiever) as the Premier Achiever Remarkable Consultant. D. Edgard A. Cabangon as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Business Company Leader of the year. Conrado Cagas Tacgos Jr. (Golden Achiever) as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Radio Jock and Events Host of the year. Bon Jheo Exconde (Golden Achiever) as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Photographer of the year. Janice Delima as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Business Owner in the Philippines. Dr. Elva Evasco-Auza as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Obstetrician-Gynecologist of the year.  DJ Mama Colleen as the Premier Achiever Female Influencer & Inspiring Radio DJ. DJ Kuya Machete as the Premier Achiever Extraordinary FM Radio DJ of the year. Edwin Lisa as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Aesthetic Grand Master. Freddie Aguilar as the Premier Achiever Remarkable Composer and Singer of the year. Richard James B. Merk as the Premier Achiever Outstanding King of Jazz and Remarkable Radio Host. Conelen Cariño as the Premier Achiever and Business Extraordinaire. Ravve Jay Prevendido (Golden Achiever) as the Premier Achiever Trusted Male Entrepreneur. Mherie Vic Palomo Prevendido (Golden Achiever) as the Premier Achiever Trusted Entrepreneur of the year.  Mel Marty Macasil as the Premier Achiever Outstanding E-commerce Specialist. Jos Garcia as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Singer & Songwriter of the year. Ira Patricia Malaluan as the Premier Achiever Remarkable Miss Philippines Earth – Eco Tourism. Julia Mendoza as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Beauty Queen and Remarkable Business Owner. Usec. Robert Rivera as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Online and Radio Male Host of the year. Nerlisa Elyza Francisco Rivera as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Online and Radio Female Host of the year. Jeff Madarang as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Business Owner of the year. Rogelio Constantino Medina as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Freelance Journalist. Audrey Gorriceta (Golden Achiever) as the Premier Achiever Outstanding TV Host of the year. Hagibis as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Filipino Singers. Jane Darren Genobisa as the Premier Achiever Outstanding International Beauty Queen of the year. Cindy Madduma (Golden Achiever) as the Premier Achiever Outstanding International Beauty Pageant Leader. Marc Logan as the Premier Achiever Best Magazine Show Host. Keyrol Cabuso (Golden Achiever) as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Videographer. & Dr. Patrick Saburit as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Healthcare Business Owner of the year. Catherine Veluz-Zeta as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Business Leader. Hon. Saleha Pangarungan Sacar as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Public Servant of the year. Earlo Bringas as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Journalist. Gilbert de los Santos as the Premier Achiever Outstanding DJ of the year. Jigo Postolero as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Multimedia Reporter of the year. Jomerle Evardone Matutino as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Entrepreneur & Online Business Consultant. William Jones as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Marketing Agency Business Owner. Dannel Rey de Jesus as the Premier Achiever Best Network Marketing Professional. & Angelo Estera as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Fashion Designer.

The confirmed awardees are from different business industries and have been recognized as the best in their respective fields. These include NWOW International Trading Corp., JP Catering Services (Golden Awardee), Sheanne Roll Up Door Construction Services (Golden Awardee), Intele Builders and Development Corporation, Lucky GHL Advertising (Golden Awardee), JFBV (Golden Awardee),  Matty’s Themed Events, Sapporo Products Inc, 97.9 Home Radio(Golden Awardee), Aliw Channel 23(Golden Awardee), DWIZ-AM(Golden Awardee), Lagniappe Printshop(Golden Awardee), Eyeleen Hair and Make up by: Aileen Sebua(Golden Awardee), Gown and Events Management by Touting(Golden Awardee), Media House Express(Golden Awardee), Jam Lim Enterprises(Golden Awardee), Cave Beach Resort(Golden Awardee), Alegre de Pilipinas, The Metropolista (Golden Awardee), Rise and Shine Pilipinas(Golden Awardee), Light TV(Golden Awardee), RCP Ritmo Tambore, Win Radio, Bhylinn’s Modern Fashion, JL Photoworks , Edwin Lisa Brows and Aesthetics, Venice Handicrafts Wooden Kiddie Stools and Furniture, Links Digital (Golden Awardee), Through The Glass Creatives (Golden Awardee), Densol’s Catering, Kylledmed Philippines, Joyice Philippines, DWAN 1206 AM, Top 5 Mga Kwentong Marc Logan, Genuine Diamonds PH, SCPM Trading, Kpanfuel International Trading, Uno Construction International, Kherk Roldan Whitelabel SEO Solutions, MJ-AM TRADING & Better Boneless.

This year’s event is made possible with the support of our sponsors, JFBV (Golden Awardee), Lucky GHL Advertising (Golden Awardee), Salvacion Paparon(Golden Achiever), Sheanne Roll Up Door Construction Services(Golden Awardee), Intele Builders and Development Corporation, NWOW International Trading Corp & Kylledmed Philippines as Primary Sponsors. And JP Catering Services (Golden Awardee) & Genuine Diamonds PH as Minor Sponsors. We appreciate your commitment and dedication to recognizing excellence in the business industry.

Organizers Behind the Magic:

Behind every successful event is a dedicated team of organizers, and the 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award is no exception. La Visual Corporation & SIRBISU Channel have once again joined forces to bring this prestigious event to life. With their expertise, creativity, and tireless dedication, they have transformed the award ceremony into a world-class celebration of excellence and achievement. From conceptualization to execution, their meticulous planning and attention to detail ensure that every aspect of the event is extraordinary.

Save the Date:

As we eagerly anticipate the 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award 2024, mark your calendars and prepare to be part of another unforgettable evening celebrating the best and brightest in the business world. Stay tuned for more updates, sneak peeks, and behind-the-scenes glimpses as we countdown to this momentous event.

Come celebrate, empower, and be inspired with us on December 8, 2024, at Winford Resort and Casino Manila. Don’t pass up the opportunity to participate in this esteemed occasion and see history being made.

Join us at the 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Award 2024 to celebrate success, innovation, and greatness! See you there!

November 20, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

2GO and AFP Collaborate to Provide Special Savings to Philippine Military Members

Major General Ramon P Zagala PA, Commander of the AFP’s Civil Relations Service, and Francis Chua, head of 2GO Travel, respectively, signed the agreement to officially launch the partnership between the AFP and 2GO. Photo grab from AFP Radio DWDD Facebook page.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and 2GO, the top provider of end-to-end logistics and maritime travel services in the Philippines, are pleased to announce a new relationship that will grant Filipino soldiers and servicewomen exceptional savings. All AFP employees will now be eligible for exclusive discounts on a few 2GO services, providing them with dependable shipping options and an improved local maritime travel experience.

This relationship allows AFP employees to receive a 10% discount on 2GO Express domestic shipping, a 20% reduction on base rates for all 2GO Travel routes, and a 10% discount on international shipping through FedEx.

“In tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment of our military service members, 2GO Travel is extending special rates to members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” said Francis Chua, Head of 2GO Travel. “We hope this initiative makes their journeys with us—whether for work or personal—more convenient and memorable. As a gesture of appreciation, we are honored to offer the service they truly deserve,” he added.

2GO’s five newest vessels—MV 2GO Maligaya, Masagana, Masigla, Masikap, and Masinag—are inspired by Filipino values and traits, embodying ideals that capture the essence of being a Filipino. The spirit that reflects our values are upheld by the AFP in their service to our people.

From left to right: Col Romulus B Rabara, PA (MNSA), Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations, CRSAFP; MGen Rommel P Roldan PAF, Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel, J1, AFP; MGen Ramon P. Zagala PA, Commander, Civil Relations Service, AFP; Francis Chua, Head of 2GO Travel; RJ Cabreros, Corporate Communications Manager at 2GO Group, Inc.; George Clayton Narag, Product Marketing Senior Manager at 2GO Travel; and Laurence Albert Orante, Business Process Analysis Manager at 2GO Travel. Photo grab from AFP Radio DWDD Facebook page.
 

Major General Ramon P Zagala PA, head of the AFP’s Civil Relations Service, expressed his gratitude for 2GO’s support. “We’re happy that 2GO has chosen to recognize the sacrifices of our servicemen and women through this discount program. This is especially helpful during the holiday season, a rare time for many of our personnel to reconnect with their families. We are excited to launch this partnership at such a meaningful time of year.”

AFP employees merely need to show their AFP-issued identity cards at any 2GO Retail Store around the country to be eligible for these savings. By providing them with a comprehensive range of logistics solutions together with an enjoyable and restful sea travel experience, 2GO hopes to thank AFP servicemen and servicewomen through this cooperation. 2GO’s dedication to helping those who serve the country is shown in this program.

Visit 2GO’s social media profiles, travel.2go.com.ph and express.2go.com.ph, or stop by the closest 2GO retail store for additional details on their promotions and products.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

November 20, 2024 by
Lifestyle

Celebrating Women for Fifty Years #TheBarbizonWay

Barbizon Celebrates Its Golden Year with a New Ambassador to Empower Women
 

Intimate clothing for women is essential for empowering, encouraging, and bolstering self-confidence. These items become more than just clothes; they become a part of every woman’s everyday life and her transition into femininity. Barbizon has dedicated itself for decades to offering intimates that honor and encourage women in all phases of life.

Barbizon, one of the Philippines’ top brands of intimate clothing, is now excited to celebrate its 50th anniversary. Miss CosmoWorld 2022 Meiji Cruz, the brand’s newest ambassador, is prepared to inspire and empower women in honor of this milestone.

Celebrating the New #BarbizonWoman


Meiji Aculana Cruz, widely known as Meiji Cruz, proudly joins Barbizon Intimate Apparel as its newest ambassador. Admired for her elegance and intelligence, Meiji is an inspiration to women across generations. A familiar face as a TV host and news anchor, she also holds the honor of being the first Filipina to win the Miss CosmoWorld pageant. Previously, she placed as second runner-up in the 2021 Bb. Pilipinas pageant. Now, as CEO and chairperson of Miss CosmoWorld Philippines, Meiji is on a mission to hone a new generation of women, empowering them to pursue their dreams and represent the world-class potential of Filipinas.

Her mission aligns perfectly with Barbizon’s commitment to uplifting and empowering women through its products, fostering confidence and self-expression in every woman who wears them.

“Being the new #BarbizonWoman is a true honor. Barbizon has a long history of celebrating and supporting women with intimates— not only underwear, but also innerwear, sleepwear, and even shapewear— tailored to the needs of every Filipina woman,” Meiji shared. “I’m excited to encourage women to embrace their confidence and beauty, just as I have experienced with Barbizon. Their products truly enhance how we feel about ourselves, empowering us to shine from within. ” she added.

Barbizon’s 50-Year Journey

In 1974, Barbizon began by selling bras, panties, stockings, and handkerchiefs—basic necessities for women. The goal was to provide women with options to meet their essential needs. Over the decades, the brand has evolved to address the changing needs of Filipina women, shifting from a focus on basic necessities to prioritizing quality and comfort in response to their growing intimate needs. This evolution started with bras and panties and eventually expanded to include shapewear, sleepwear, and accessories.

“Expanding our product line has been one of our key strategies for staying competitive in this industry. Our goal is to pass on Barbizon from generation to generation, from mothers to teens and even little girls, ensuring that the brand will be their companion on every personal journey,” says Barbizon Marketing & E-commerce Manager Raiza Limpiada. “For fifty years, Barbizon has been more than just a brand—it’s a trusted ally that helps every Filipina discover the right intimates and encourages them on their paths, no matter what life brings.”

The opening of more than 130 department store sites around the country, including those at Robinsons, Metro, Gaisano, Landmark, Waltermart, KCC, and Lee, accelerated Barbizon’s growth. More Filipinas will have improved access thanks to this development, enabling them to embrace confidence, grace, and beauty from inside.

Barbizon may be found online at www.barbizon.com.ph and in all major department shops around the country. Visit @barbizon_ph on Instagram and @barbizon.ph on Facebook & TikTok for the most recent information regarding Barbizon’s 50th anniversary. Celebrate your journey #TheBarbizonWay.

November 19, 2024 by
Lifestyle

Rex Education Enhances Digital Learning Solutions with Schoology and First Eduspec Inc.

Today’s learners face considerable challenges; their learning journey was set back several years by the global pandemic that halted face-to-face classes from March 2020 (the first implementation of community quarantines) to November 2022 (when the Department of Education, or DepEd, ordered a full return to school-based learning). According to UNICEF, Filipino learners missed more learning opportunities compared to their global counterparts, as the Philippines was among the last countries to reopen in-person classes—effectively putting Filipino learners at a significant disadvantage.

This situation is concerning, with Filipino learners collectively ranking 77th among 81 countries in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022 rankings released in December 2023—an indication that many have been left behind. However, this disheartening situation of the Filipino learner also presents an opportunity for education stakeholders—parents, teachers, school leaders, and academic publishers—the whole learning community, to unite and give the country’s millions of learners (18,370,310 in the public school system alone, according to DepEd’s data for school year 2024–2025) the support they need to overcome this disadvantage and so they can thrive and succeed.

Rex Education, the country’s leading academic publisher for over seven decades and a vital stakeholder in the education sector, takes the challenge. REX has championed the Filipino learner since its founding in the 1950s, initially selling—and then publishing—textbooks and other scholastic materials that have long been staples in every classroom nationwide. These are all available at Rex E-Store (https://estore.rex.com.ph/), the company’s one-stop online store for quality learning solutions.

As the digital age emerged, ushering in distance learning, Rex Education responded accordingly by launching Schoology in 2015, one of the Philippines’ very first learning management systems (LMS). Rex Education’s Schoology represents the classroom of the future—fully digital and rich with innovative features that make learning easy, accessible, fun, and challenging.

“Technology cannot be an add-on; it’s a necessity,” Rex Education stated in a media release announcing the launch of Schoology. “Flexible learning is not a privilege or an advantage; it’s a necessity. Certainly, future-proofing our classrooms, although it cannot be perfected, is an imperative.”

That press release proved prescient 5 years later, as digital classrooms like Rex Education’s Schoology became integral to advancing education during a time when traditional classes were closed indefinitely. Moreover, Rex Education expanded Schoology, making it accessible to more learners nationwide, adding additional resources to the platform, and introducing new features and capabilities.

Now, with the pandemic in the rearview, Schoology remains an educational powerhouse, advocating for the Filipino learner in this age of hybrid education by enhancing traditional learning environments and providing 21st-century learning experiences. With traditional modalities infused with digital tools, today’s learners can embark on the challenging journey of making up for lost years while also preparing for a technology-focused future.

However, Filipino learners still have significant ground to cover, particularly in math and science, where they ranked near the bottom in the same PISA 2022 rankings. Rex Education, through First Eduspec Inc. (FEI), helps address this gap by offering a comprehensive ICT and robotics curriculum that can enrich the learning opportunities and experiences of today’s learners and prepare them for the challenges of tomorrow.

While today’s Filipino learners may be disadvantaged, they can achieve more and reach their full potential with the right support. This is a challenge to all the sector’s stakeholders—an urgent call to action—and Rex Education continues to rise to the occasion, para sa bata, para sa mamamayan, para sa bayan.

November 17, 2024 by
Food, Lifestyle

Two ESGBusiness Awards for the Farmer Entrepreneurship Program Were Given to the Jollibee Group

The Farmer Entrepreneurship Program, a joint initiative by the Jollibee Group and the Jollibee Group Foundation, Inc. (JGF), won the ‘Entrepreneurship Development Programme Award’ and the ‘Social Welfare Award’ at the recently held ESGBusiness Awards 2024.

Jollibee Group and the Jollibee Group Foundation, Inc. (JGF), collaborated to create the Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (“FEP” or the “Program”), which was recognized with two honors at the ESGBusiness honors 2024 for its significant improvements to the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in the Philippines.

In recognition of its dedication to assisting budding business owners and fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem, FEP was granted the “Entrepreneurship Development Programme Award.” Additionally, it won the “Social Welfare Award” for safeguarding the fundamental necessities and well-being of marginalized groups, shielding them from dangers and adversity, and fostering social and economic stability. The Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF) has been acknowledged by ESGBusiness for the first time, highlighting its commitment to sustainability and creating just futures.

“We extend our gratitude to the ESGBusiness for recognizing our initiatives to empowering smallholder farmers in our country,” said Pepot Miñana Jr., Chief Sustainability and Public Affairs Officer at Jollibee Group. “We believe that the farming sector plays a huge role in achieving food security. Yet, they continue to face significant challenges due to various limitations such as lack of access to resources and sure markets. With FEP, our goal is to help them overcome those barriers by equipping them with skills and knowledge to become effective agro-entrepreneurs.”

The ESGBusiness Awards is an esteemed regional awards program that celebrates companies that lead sustainable development, showcasing those actively making a positive impact through social responsibility.

Empowering smallholder farmers

FEP is an agro-entrepreneurial and leadership program that aims to educate smallholder farmers on innovative farming technologies and entrepreneurship so they can adopt sustainable farming methods, increase their productivity, and gain higher incomes.

With FEP’s support, Filipino smallholder farmers have achieved income stability, repaid loans, accessed better financial services, built their own homes, and funded their children’s tertiary education, and inspired more youth and women to pursue farming.  

Achieving supply resiliency

Jollibee Group acknowledges the farmers’ key role in having a resilient supply chain. As the most fundamental partners of the Jollibee Group in achieving its mission of providing a joyful dining experience to its customers, the local smallholder farmers clustered from 16 localities in the country directly provide white onions, green bell peppers, tomatoes, and other vegetables to Jollibee, Mang Inasal, Chowking, and Greenwich branches that ensure exceptional quality and flavor.

This year, Jollibee Group and JGF aim to increase the volume of vegetables supplied to enhance support and opportunities for FEP farmers. In 2023, FEP farmers delivered 1,367,000 kilos of vegetables to the Jollibee Group, meeting 24% of the Group’s onion requirements.

JGF President Gisela Tiongson noted the Program’s significance: “The FEP farmers have been our longtime partners in ensuring that we fulfill our mission of bringing the joy of eating to our customers by sourcing fresh and quality ingredients directly from them. This has been especially helpful for the company in improving supply resiliency and cost efficiency. Still, for the farmers, this means an improved and consistent income that could help uplift their livelihood, scale their business, and obtain access to better financial services.”

FEP has accredited 30 farmer groups, comprising 1,400 farmers. To date, they have supplied 11 million kilos of fresh vegetables to Jollibee, generating sales of P500 million.

To date, FEP has accredited 30 farmer groups, comprising 1,400 farmers. Collectively, these farmers have supplied 11 million kilos of fresh vegetables to Jollibee, generating sales of P500 million.

In order to help more farmers learn the AECA approach, JGF and Xavier University launched in 2021 the Agro-Enterprise for Inclusive Value Chain (AEIVC) course. To date, more than 500 national and local government personnel and cooperative managers have completed the course and cascaded the concepts to the thousands of farmers they assist.

The Farmer Livelihood Recovery Program, which provides typhoon-affected farmers with seedlings and fertilizers and enhances their resilience by facilitating a speedier recovery, is part of FEP because of the Philippines’ susceptibility to natural disasters.

Jollibee Group and JGF continue to show their dedication to helping smallholder farmers by implementing programs like FEP, which strengthens sustainable supply chains and economic stability.

November 13, 2024 by
Food, Lifestyle

First Group of Youth Trainees to Begin OJT in Food Service in a few Jollibee Group stores

The inaugural batch of youth trainees under JGF’s ACE Program and Youthworks PH is set to begin their on-the-job training in select stores of Jollibee, Chowking, and Greenwich in Cebu.
 

Under the Jollibee Group Foundation’s (JGF),  Access, Curriculum, and Employability (ACE) Program and Youthworks PH, the first group of youth trainees will start their on-the-job training in a few Jollibee locations in Cebu, including Chowking and Greenwich. The Jollibee Group, the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and Primary Structures Educational Foundation, Inc. – School of Knowledge for Industrial Labor, Leadership, and Service (PSEFI-SKILLS) have partnered to create this program.

The 21 “Not in Education, Employment, or Training” (NEET) youth trainees began their work-based training in Jollibee Group stores. This was the second phase of their training, which was supported by Jollibee Group and included the trainees’ housing and allowances, following ten weeks of classroom instruction. In addition, JGF and Jollibee Group collaborated with PSEFI-SKILLS to create the Quick Service Restaurant Operations (QSRO) track curriculum, which aims to close the knowledge gap in the food service sector for professionalized staff training.

The QSRO is one of the two tracks under the ACE Scholarship Program; the other track focuses on agriculture, which is done in partnership with technical-vocational training institutions to provide youth from low-income families the opportunity to stay in school and eventually improve their livelihoods.

The Supervised Industry Learning (SIL), an aspect of the Youthworks PH program, will run from September to December 2024. During this phase, the trainees will work alongside experienced store managers and crew members within Jollibee Group stores and will undertake a range of tasks including customer service, food handling, maintaining cleanliness and sanitation, and other operational procedures.

Launched in 2018, YouthWorks PH is a private sector initiative to increase access to quality training and employment opportunities for unemployed and out-of-school Filipino youth.

During the kick-off event last September 23, at Jollibee Parkmall in Mandaue City, Ruth Angeles, Chief Human Resources Officer for Jollibee Group Philippines emphasized the importance of SIL for the trainees.

“We are excited to welcome our trainees into the next phase of their program, where they will gain hands-on experience as skilled service crew. This part is crucial because it puts them in real-world situations and gives them the practical skills they need to handle the challenges of their job,” said Jollibee Group Chief of Human Resources Officer Ruth Angeles.

Investing in the future

The 21 youth trainees will be attending an intensive three-month on-the-job training that will allow them to learn competencies in Quick Service Restaurant Operations (QSRO) at select Jollibee Group stores.

As one of JGF’s core commitments in uplifting underprivileged youth, JGF President Gisela Tiongson underscored the value of investing in the future of the youth and creating pathways for their success.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to drive social change and open up more opportunities to help the next generation succeed and reach their dreams,” said Tiongson. “At Jollibee Group and JGF, we believe that by investing in youth education, we can build a more inclusive and resilient society where more people have a chance at a better life.”

Jessa Marie Jumao-as, one of the trainees of the YouthWorks PH program, said the workforce development training program has been a “transformative gift” for her. Prior to participating in the program, she used to be part of a cleaning service group, which made her realize that she is happy with work that deals with more people.

“I am very grateful to Jollibee Group and PSEFI-SKILLS for giving me the opportunity to become one of the ACE scholars and trainees of the YouthWorks PH program of PBED and USAID. I am grateful to them because they taught me new skills to be able to work in the food and beverage sector, and to have a better future. This has been a transformative experience,” said Jumao-as.

Youth unemployment is at 11.2%, despite the high number of vacancies in different industries.

“We are elated to see the pilot batch of 21 out-of-school youth in Cebu City jumpstart this opportunity. This project is a testament to what we can achieve when we break down silos and work together. When government, businesses, educators, and communities join forces, we can empower young people, unlock their potential, and build a brighter future for all,” said Executive Director of PBED Justine Raagas.

Together with PSEFI-SKILLS, PBEd, and USAID, Jollibee Group and JGF will continue to expand the ACE Scholarship and YouthWorks PH programs by bringing them closer to more trainees in other regions of the nation in order to further enhance the skills and create more opportunities for more NEET youth trainees.

November 13, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

Eastern Communications Shares Cybersecurity Insights for Business Protection with Industry Experts

Eastern Communications launches Thoughts on Tech Series 2 video podcast, focusing on Cybersecurity Awareness, featuring News5 anchor Jes Delos Santos, DICT Undersecretary Jeffrey Dy, and other tech industry experts.
 

In honor of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, Eastern Communications conducted interviews with prominent figures in the field to get advice on how companies should protect themselves against the increasing risk of cyberattacks.

The Philippine National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-PH) recorded more than 2,000 cyber incidents impacting different enterprises between January and August 2024. The Philippine National Police (PNP) Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) reports that the number of cybercrime cases increased by 21.8% in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, indicating a wider growth in cybercrimes throughout the nation.

From January to March 2024, ACG recorded 4,469 cybercrimes — an average of 49 cases per day compared to 40 in 2023. Online selling scams topped the list, followed by investment scams and credit/debit card fraud. This surge signals a sharp rise in cyberattacks across the Philippines, highlighting the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures​.

Meanwhile, anti-scam app Whoscall reported a 200% surge in the number of scam calls and messages between January and August 2024, with over 3 million reported text scams and more than 320,000 scam calls.

Forms of cyber attacks have also changed, and cybercriminals are becoming more ICT-enabled as they resort to technologies like Fake Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) to directly attack users by sending spam and fraudulent SMS messages.

To address these escalating challenges, Eastern Communications’ Thoughts on Tech podcast series featured in-depth discussions with tech experts, exploring critical cybersecurity topics. These include the government’s role in mitigating cyber threats, safeguarding customer data, managing information technology (IT) risks for enterprises, and the opportunities and risks of artificial intelligence (AI).

Cybersecurity Solutions for Every Business

Cybersecurity was once seen as an optional and additional cost for many businesses. Today, it is an essential investment for both small enterprises and large corporations. Rex Evangelista, Head of IT at Eastern Communications, noted this change of perspective for cybersecurity.

Rex Evangelista, Eastern Communications Head of I.T. Division

“I would say that in terms of the importance of the organizations and the shift of organizations in the companies, they are now able to understand the importance of security in their organization,” he said, adding that mitigating cyber risks also protects a company’s reputation.

Evangelista also noted the importance of proactive cybersecurity strategies to mitigate the risks and maintain business continuity.

“They have to liken to insurance, that if [attacks] happen, somehow they are covered. The cybersecurity solutions are actually there to make sure that operations will continue, it will not be disrupted,” he explained.

Educating employees and spreading cybersecurity awareness is another need for a company to ensure employees are also protected against cyber threats, according to Evangelista.

Securing Customer Trust and Data

For businesses, especially in the finance industry, securing customer data is paramount. Pancho Reyna, Managing Director of AI, Data, and Engineering of UBX (UnionBank’s digital arm), emphasized the evolving nature of cyberattacks and the necessity of robust security measures.

Pancho Reyna, Managing Director of AI, Data, and Engineering of UBX
 

“From a cybersecurity perspective, the technology is also rapidly evolving and can be used for any malicious or any form of attacks,” he said.

Reyna shared that cybersecurity in the finance industry is not just about prevention, but also deterrence. “It’s making sure that your systems are difficult, if not impossible, to penetrate,” he explained.

Businesses should anticipate attacks and implement security layers that make them harder targets. Reyna also noted that business owners should be aware of their cybersecurity needs and adopt these necessities accordingly to protect themselves against cyber risks.

The Government’s Role Against Cyberthreats

Cybersecurity is not only the sole responsibility of the private sector. Jeffrey Ian Dy, Undersecretary – Infostructure Management, Cybersecurity and Upskilling of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) highlights the government’s efforts to protect the country against cyberattacks and offers key lessons for businesses.

Jeffrey Ian Dy, Undersecretary – Infostructure Management, Cybersecurity and Upskilling of the DICT

Dy pointed out that while the finance industry is more susceptible to cyber threats, no industry is actually safe from these attacks. The government, telecommunications companies, and the academe are also the most targeted institutions, especially for advanced persistent threats (APTs) like state-sponsored attacks, and cyber terrorism.

The undersecretary emphasized that understanding both the offensive and defensive sides of cybersecurity is crucial.

“Hacking is a lot easier now, and that’s the problem. The cost of offensive cyber security capabilities is less than the cost of defending,” Dy said. This means businesses must proactively strengthen their defenses.

He added that small and large businesses alike must prioritize cybersecurity investments in critical areas, such as securing Wi-Fi access points and implementing strong password protocols.

The government’s National Cybersecurity Plan 2028 brings together multiple agencies to address cybercrime. However, Dy stressed that this fight requires cooperation from all sectors, including private businesses.

“Security is not about securing everything. It’s focusing your money on where it matters the most. In that way, you can significantly lessen your security cost,” the undersecretary advised.

Understanding AI: Opportunities, Threats, and Training Your People

AI is a double-edged sword that offers both opportunities and risks. Catz Jalandoni, Country Head of the Global AI Council Philippines, emphasized that businesses must understand AI’s potential, while also preparing for its associated threats.

Catz Jalandoni, Country Head of the Global AI Council Philippines
 

AI can streamline business operations, drive innovation, and even help businesses stay competitive — 89% of Filipino leaders agree that AI adoption is key to remaining competitive. Jalandoni noted that AI is one of the tools that is easy to learn and is easy to access, with numerous free online courses available for users.

“Technology is a tool, use it, so that it will benefit you, and embrace it so that you are able to do more things that you thought are impossible or you are incapable of,” she said.

However, like any new technology, Jalandoni warned that AI can still be used. To prevent this, she introduced the concept of “mothering” AI, which involves teaching AI to behave ethically.

“When you mother, you say not only how it’s supposed to be done, but also whether it’s right or wrong. And that’s something that I’m championing, for people to actually ‘mother’ your AI,” Jalandoni explained. “You can teach it not only how to find information that is relevant to you, but how to access information that can actually be functional for you and what type of information it should be accessing.”

Strengthening Your Cyber Defenses

As cyber threats continue to evolve, businesses must stay ahead of potential risks by investing in the right technology, training their people, and adopting proactive security measures. Eastern Communications offers a suite of ICT solutions designed to help businesses protect their data and operations, from secure network solutions to robust cybersecurity tools.

A special session titled “Strengthening Cybersecurity in the Philippines: Best Practices, Emerging Threats, and Future-Proofing Strategies,” will be held on October 30, 2024, at Robert Sears Hall, AmCham Philippines, Makati City, in collaboration with Eastern and the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham). In the face of changing cyber threats, the event will teach companies how to remain ahead of the curve and guarantee their company’s resilience.

Call 5300-7000 or visit www.eastern.com.ph to learn more about how Eastern Communications can assist your company in protecting itself against online attacks.

November 12, 2024 by
Beauty, Lifestyle

NIVEA’s 10 Out of 10 Care Celebration Is Still Going Strong, Giving You the Strength to Own Your Glow

By holding a countrywide raffle, NIVEA, your go-to skin care partner, recently celebrated a major turning point in its dedication to skin health and wellbeing. This campaign was more than just a prize giveaway; it was a celebration of connection, care, and the professional solutions NIVEA offers to make you feel your best.

NIVEA is committed to providing cutting-edge skin care products that enable people to embrace their personal shine as a global leader in skincare. NIVEA promotes social interaction and living life to the fullest by emphasizing the development of community and well-being.

The much-anticipated nationwide raffle is still ongoing, providing you with the opportunity to win exciting prizes! As NIVEA continues its mission to reward and celebrate loyal customers, each winner exemplifies the confidence that comes from caring for one’s skin.

Join in for your chance to be one of the lucky winners! From October 10 to December 10, 2024, spend ₱500 on NIVEA products for your chance to win a dream trip to South Korea for two (2)!

Unlock More Opportunities to Win with NIVEA

NIVEA has even more thrilling opportunities for you to showcase your skincare passion and potentially score exclusive goodies—just share your NIVEA love on social media and you could be the next lucky winner.

To enter, visit NIVEA’s official Instagram @nivea_ph and find the “Add Yours” template in the 10/10 IG story highlight. Click the “Add Yours” button to create a 30-second video showcasing your favorite NIVEA product and why it deserves a 10 out of 10. Tag NIVEA in your post and include the hashtag #10outof10fromNIVEA.

By participating, you’ll have a chance to win exclusive NIVEA goodies like the NIVEA Intensive Moisture Body Milk, NIVEA Body Extra Bright Radiant & Smooth Lotion, NIVEA Extra Bright Super 10 Body Serum, and more.

The NIVEA Pop-up Booth

NIVEA recently brought its expert skincare advice with its exciting pop-up booths! Visitors enjoyed personalized skin consultations, product demonstrations, and exclusive offers. If you missed the event at SM Mall of Asia and SM North Edsa, you can still experience NIVEA’s 10 out of 10 care through online exclusive offers. A perfect chance to pamper your skin and discover your new favorite products!

Join the NIVEA Squad

This is your opportunity to win incredible gifts and receive 10 out of 10 care, regardless of how long you’ve been a fan of NIVEA. To find out more about forthcoming promotions and the newest advancements in skincare, visit NIVEA’s website and follow them on social media. Allow NIVEA’s professional care to be a part of your everyday routine and special occasions.

Let’s unite in celebrating the strength of feeling taken care of!

November 9, 2024 by