Taking place simultaneously on September 21 in 15 different SM Supermalls across the nation, including SM By the Bay at SM Mall of Asia Complex, SM Tuguegarao Downtown, SM City Tuguegarao, SM City Bataan, SM City Olongapo Central, SM City Olongapo Downtown, SM City Sorsogon, SM City Legazpi, SM Daet, SM City Puerto Princesa, SM City Roxas, SM City Cebu, SM City Seaside Cebu, SM City Mindpro, and SM City General Santos. The International Coastal Clean-Up (ICC) is back for another year, and it looks to be the biggest one yet. When we work together, we can significantly improve our seas and make the world a better, cleaner place for everyone.
In 2023, SM Cares recorded more than 100,000 kg of trash collected with the help of an estimated 17,000 total volunteers from 15 SM Supermalls nationwide. This year, in celebration of its 20th year of supporting communities and creating a positive impact on the environment, SM Cares aims to double the amount of solid waste collected to 200,000 kg, eyeing a volunteer count of 20,000.
If you’re interested in joining the global movement towards cleaner seas and oceans, SM Cares is inviting you to be part of this year’s ICC!
The corporate social responsibility division of SM Supermalls, SM Cares, is in charge of programs that advance community growth and sustainability. In addition to its environmental projects, SM Cares also advocates for women and breastfeeding mothers, people with disabilities, senior citizens, children and youth, and the Bike-Friendly SM initiative.
SM Supermalls have enhanced natural lighting and improved insulation, reducing energy needs for lighting, heating, and cooling, leading to more efficient and environmentally friendly operations.
The Philippines is prone to typhoons, as seen by recent catastrophic weather occurrences, especially as we approach typhoon season.
It is obvious that participating in the international discussion on reaching net zero emissions is essential as the country struggles with the possible fallout. The necessity for the Philippines to take a leading role in the battle against climate change has been brought to light by this storm, both to lessen its effects going forward and to help find global solutions.
The idea of “net zero” entails matching the quantity of greenhouse gases released into the environment with an equal amount extracted. Achieving net zero is a critical first step in improving climate resilience for the Philippines, a nation that is regularly targeted by extreme weather. The nation cannot afford to take a backseat in the international effort to tackle climate change, as demonstrated by the recent typhoon. Rather, it needs to take the lead in supporting and putting into practice policies that advance the global net zero goal.
One of the key areas where the Philippines can make a significant impact is by leveraging its abundant natural resources to transition to renewable energy sources. By increasing investments in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, the nation can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, thereby lowering its carbon footprint.
This transition is crucial for achieving net zero and offers the added benefit of creating a more resilient energy infrastructure less susceptible to disruptions caused by extreme weather.
SM Prime Holdings, Inc. recognizes the equal importance and urgency of both climate change adaptation and mitigation. As part of our strategy, we are investing 10% of our Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) in sustainability and disaster resilience design.
A significant initiative supporting this commitment is SM Prime’s pledge to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. As the country’s leading integrated sustainable property developer, we have committed to the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), a recognized global standard for corporate decarbonization targets. This makes us one of the few corporations in the Philippines to do so. To ensure our near and long-term science-based targets for 2030 and 2040 align with the global commitment to achieve net zero by 2050, SM Prime collaborates with the World-Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF) through their Corporates for a Better Planet Initiative (CBPI) program.
Using solar panels or other renewable energy sources lowers the carbon footprint, leading to reduced greenhouse gas emissions and decreased reliance on non-renewable energy.
This ambitious target is supported by concrete actions, such as the installation of onsite solar panels across various properties and strategic partnerships for renewable energy sourcing.
These programs show that sustainable practices can be incorporated into regular business operations, not only lowering the company’s carbon footprint but also creating a model for other companies to follow.
This commitment puts climate action at the forefront as one of SM Prime’s sustainability agenda. It pledges to advance every person’s right to a better quality of life through increased climate action, disaster risk reduction, biodiversity protection, and our strategic corporate social responsibility programs.
(L-R): Moderator Efraim Roxas, Environmental, Land Use and Urban Planning and Development Bureau (ELUPDB) Director Mylene Rivera, SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan, and Tohoku University Professor Jeongsoo Yu
By organizing the 7th annual Association of Pacific Rim Universities – Sustainable Cities and Landscapes (APRU-SCL) 2024 Conference and the 3rd International Conference on Human Settlements Planning and Development (ICHSPD) at the SMX Convention Center Aura, SM Prime Holdings (SM Prime) significantly contributed to the advancement of sustainable urban development. Over 300 specialists convened at this esteemed event, which was organized by the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), to deliberate on inventive approaches to constructing more resilient and environmentally friendly communities. The conference, which had as its main focus “Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities Through Science, Technology, and Innovation,” emphasized the value of teamwork in solving urban problems.
SM’s commitment to sustainability was evident through the participation of its top executives. SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan showcased SM Supermalls’ eco-friendly practices and community-focused programs.
“Our malls are more than just shopping centers; they are dynamic public spaces, woven into the daily lives of millions of Filipinos. Our comprehensive environmental sustainability programs are deeply inspired by the vision of our Chairman of the Executive Committee, Mr. Hans Sy, a tireless advocate for environmental sustainability and disaster resilience,” Mr. Tan said..
SM Supermalls’ President Steven Tan highlights the malls’ sustainability initiatives.
He added, “At SM Supermalls, we leverage science and technology to develop innovative solutions that are seamlessly integrated into the design and operation of our malls. We remain committed to leveraging innovation and collaboration to build a greener, more resilient, and more sustainable future for the Philippines.”
SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC) Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy Jessica Bianca Sy, shared the company’s vision of creating sustainable integrated properties that foster lively communities.
(L-R): University of the Philippines Los Baños’ (UPLB) Dean Jennifer Marie Amparo, UPLB Chancellor Jose Camacho Jr., Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Chief Executive Thomas Schneider, Makati Mayor Abigail Binay, SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC) Lead Executive for Design, Innovation, and Strategy Jessica Bianca Sy, International Conference on Human Settlements Planning and Development (ICHSPD) Conference Director Edgar Reyes Jr., and APRU-Sustainable Cities and Landscapes Director Yekang Ko
National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr. highlighted SM’s role in disaster preparedness. He presented “From Risk to Resilience: The Work of the National Resilience Council in Risk Governance” where he introduced the Resilience Local Government Unit Program (RLGUP), NRC’s approaches and tools and how risk governance is supported by the sciences.
National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr. showcases SM Supermalls’ resilient infrastructure.
A breakout session on forming relationships and partnerships, led by Jonas Marie Dumdum, Senior Consultant and Sustainability Lead of Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Manila Branch, highlighted SM Prime’s dedication to sustainability even further. The importance of cooperation was emphasized by Katherine Custodio, Executive Director of World Wide Fund For Nature (WWF)-Philippines: “Any program that aims to build climate resilience requires strong partnerships and working together across all sectors.”
As it continues to create creative and sustainable lifestyle cities, SM Prime is dedicated to its position as an engine for economic growth, improving the lives of millions of people in the process. SM Prime is working to create sustainable cities of the future by exploring the next frontier in integrated property development.
Jonas Dumdum of Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Manila and World-Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)-Philippines Executive Director Katherine Custodio on Collaborative Partnerships for Climate Resilience, at the breakout session of the 7th Annual Association of Pacific Rim Universities – Sustainable Cities and Landscapes Conference and Student Symposium 2024 (APRU-SCL 2024) Conference on Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities through Science, Technology, and Innovations, is hosted and organized this year by the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB).
Developing our ability to respond, recover, and adapt to rising climate impacts is a national priority and shared obligation, since the Philippines tops the list of nations with the highest risk of disaster.
“Any program that aims to build climate resilience requires strong partnerships and working together across all sectors,” said World-Wide Fund for Nature Philippines (WWF-PH) Executive Director, Katherine Custodio at the breakout session of the 7th Annual Conference of the Association of Pacific Rim Universities – Sustainable Cities and Landscapes Conference and Student Symposium 2024 (APRU-SCL 2024).
“There is definite opportunity for platforms or networks to come together and bring to life our national policies and our commitments, but for these to succeed, there needs to be sincere effort and openness to work across different sectors and disciplines,” said Custodio. The session on creating connections and partnerships was hosted by Jonas Marie Dumdum, Senior Consultant and Sustainability Service Lead of Nomura Research Institute (NRI) Manila Branch.
“Finding the right champions within the company – that’s very important. It helps to engage the leaders from the top,” said Custodio, who has seen the history of the shared goals between the NGO and its many corporate partners over the years.
Ms. Jessica Bianca Sy, Lead Executive for Design, Innovation and Strategy for SM Prime and SMDC, shares her insights on sustainable and climate-resilient integrated properties.
WWF-Philippines and SM Prime Holdings, Inc., (SM Prime) have partnered on successful programs such as the YOUth are the Future, the annual Earth Hour campaign with SM Supermalls, SM Hotel’s Sustainable Diner, and the Hamilo Coast Sustainable Development project that’s now in its 14th year.
“At SM Prime, we dream big for our shared future. True prosperity transcends financial success. Our commitment to developing sustainable integrated properties is matched by our efforts to foster vibrant, inclusive communities wherever we build legacy properties that weather the challenges of time and that last for generations,” said Ms. Jessica Bianca Sy, Lead Executive for Design, Innovation and Strategy for SM Prime and SM Development Corporation (SMDC), during the event.
As one of Asia’s leading integrated property developers, SM Prime believes that taking the right climate action must be grounded in science and endeavor to transition to a net-zero economy. SM Prime’s partnership with WWF-PH ensures that its near and long-term science-based targets for 2030 and 2040, align with the global commitment to achieve net zero by 2050.
“WWF-PH is pleased to work with SM Prime on their decarbonization efforts through our Corporates for a Better Planet Initiative (CBPI) program. Companies such as SM Prime are guided in identifying climate-related risks, working on a roadmap, and publicly committing to their science-based targets,” said Custodio.
“Change does not happen overnight. This is something we have learned in our work with communities all over the country. True partners are willing to work together for a long time, and actively listen to each other,” said Custodio, when asked by Dumdum about climate partnerships and shared purpose. “When your project positively impacts people’s livelihood and wellbeing – when people’s lives improve in a durable way, that’s when you know you’ve created an impact,” she said.
As it continues to create creative and sustainable lifestyle cities, SM Prime is dedicated to its position as an engine for economic growth, improving the lives of millions of people in the process. SM Prime is working to create sustainable cities of the future by exploring the next frontier in integrated property development.
This year, the University of the Philippines Los Baűos is hosting and organizing the 7th APRU-SCL 2024, which will take place from August 6–8, 2024, at the SMX Aura Convention Center. Email: [email protected] or visit the website dcerp.che.uplb.edu.ph/ichspd for further information.
The 7th Annual Association of Pacific Rim Universities – Sustainable Cities and Landscapes Conference and Student Symposium 2024 (APRU-SCL 2024) Conference on Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities through Science, Technology, and Innovations is hosted and organized this year by the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB).
(L-R): Dr. Jennifer Marie S. Amparo, Dean, CHE, Dr. Jose V. Camacho, Jr. Chancellor, UPLB, Dr. Thomas Schneider, Chief Executive, APRU, Makati Mayor Hon. Abigail Binay, Ms. Jessica Bianca Sy, SMPHI and SMDC Lead Executive for Design, Innovation and Strategy, Dr. Edgar M. Reyes, Jr., Conference Director, ICHSPD, Assoc. Professor, UPLB, and Dr. Yekang Ko, Director, APRU-SCL, Assoc. Professor, University of Oregon.
A city’s ability to prosper is a result of its developers’ ability to provide chances for growth, collaboration, and mobility. It combines the celebration of life to the fullest with a strong focus on the community.
“At SM Prime (SMPHI), we dream big for our shared future. True prosperity transcends financial success. Our commitment to developing sustainable integrated properties is matched by our efforts to foster vibrant, inclusive communities wherever we build legacy properties that weather the challenges of time and that last for generations,” said Ms. Jessica Bianca Sy, Lead Executive for Design, Innovation and Strategy for SMPHI and SM Development Corporation (SMDC).
Sy will be attending the 7th Annual Conference of the Association of Pacific Rim Universities – Sustainable Cities and Landscapes Conference and Student Symposium 2024 (APRU-SCL 2024), where she will be joining a distinguished group of local and international educators, climate professionals, and government officials.
The theme for this year’s three-day conference is Advancing Sustainable Cities and Communities through Science, Technology, and Innovation.
As one of Asia’s leading integrated property developers, SM Prime’s strong track record in sustainability and disaster resilience is central to the company’s projects. In a climate-vulnerable country like the Philippines, disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience are priorities, with a goal to scale efforts to a city level.
The rapid city growth increases energy demand, necessitating innovative and efficient renewable energy solutions. SM Prime has partnered with franchise holders to systematically manage energy use and move towards net-zero emissions.
For future large-scale master planned developments, Sy shares that SM Prime is taking a systems approach to utility infrastructure down to embedding them in the urban design guidelines at the precinct or plot level developments.
“We are developing this living framework together with our knowledge partners. Currently the ambition is to combine our efforts and actionable items under six themes of – transport, energy, water, biodiversity, built form and materials,” she said.
Sy carries this clear vision to heart as an invaluable part of the path forward. “We believe this will be the future of cities in the Philippines and we are committed to delivering it to our future generations,” she said.
As it continues to create creative and sustainable lifestyle cities, SM Prime is dedicated to its position as an engine for economic growth, improving the lives of millions of people in the process. SM Prime is working to create sustainable cities of the future by exploring the next frontier in integrated property development.
This year, the University of the Philippines Los Banos is hosting and organizing the 7th APRU-SCL 2024, which will take place from August 6–8, 2024, at the SMX Aura Convention Center. Email: [email protected] or visit the website dcerp.che.uplb.edu.ph/ichspd for further information.
Download the GlobeOne app, join Rewards, and transact online to earn points and enjoy surprises
Jason Dhakal, one of the featured artists in the upcoming G Fest Luzon Leg, serenades guests at the G DAY Media Conference, September 12, 2024.
Customers of Globe, get ready! Globe is stepping up the excitement this September with the great return of G Day, our largest and most fruitful celebration to date. Globe is expressing its gratitude in many ways, including with brand-new deals, unique prizes, and cutting-edge experiences.
I am one of those Globe loyal customers that is excited to see what is in store for us. I have been using Globe for a very long time now, and I’m happy they never fell to disappoint us and make sure to give back to those who support them all throughout. I’m also happy to have learned a lot from them, as they give us ideas about their services and what will be their next step for their G-Day festivities.
“Our G Day celebration this month, anchored on Globe’s iconic 0917 prefix, honors our loyal customers with special treats and surprises, a gesture of our continuing commitment to serve them in uplifting ways,” said Darius Delgado, Globe’s Chief Commercial Officer. “Our goal is to make it a G Day every day for Filipinos– to create wonderful experiences that empower them with choices, help them find the courage to overcome challenges, and discover new ways to live the best life with their loved ones.”
“In celebrating our millions of beloved customers across the country, the GlobeOne app serves as the gateway to unlocking rewards and rewarding experiences, enabling customers in the pursuit of their passions, while also giving them a platform to engage in causes that create positive social impact,” said Jerome Patalud, Head of Globe Rewards.
Peter Ramirez, Globe G DAY Lead, gives an overview of what Globe customers can expect this G DAY 2024 and how to join Globe’s All-New Rewards Program at the 2024 G DAY Media Conference, September 12, 2024.
The whole month of September promises to bring fun, delight and purpose through the many programs and activities lined up by Globe for its customers.
All-New Rewards: More ways to earn rewards points, new lifestyle partners, deals and games with exciting prizes, exclusive in the GlobeOne App.
G Raffle Rush: Convert Rewards points into raffle entries for the chance to win a condominium unit, electric vehicles, travel packages, and shopping sprees.
G Fair: An event created for Filipino-owned SMEs to showcase their products with the bigger Globe customer base, powered by Globe’s digital business platforms.
G Fest: A series of events in Manila, Iloilo and Davao celebrating music and the creativity of the Filipino youth in expressing their passions and connecting with their communities through digital platforms. G Fest will feature renowned local artists and provide opportunities for young people to hone and showcase their skills.
G-Gantic Goals: With just 1 Rewards point, customers can contribute to a nationwide cause – donating 100,000 Rewards points in total will provide 917 families from different regions of the country with grocery packs and cinema block screenings for a family movie bonding weekend in partnership with the Hapag Movement.
Crisela Magpayo-Cervantes, Globe Vice President for Marketing Communications, delivers her message at the G DAY Media Conference, September 12, 2024.
Customers are encouraged to download the GlobeOne app, add their Globe accounts, and enroll in the All-New benefits program in order to take part in the G Day festivities and access these exclusive benefits and experiences. They have to use the GlobeOne app for all transactions, including load top-ups and payments, in order to begin collecting rewards points.
From L-R: Alsons Dev Asst. VP for Business Development & Management Jolla Soriaga, President & CEO Miguel Dominguez, Director Marco Alcantara, and Asst. Gen. Manager for Sales & Marketing Jessa Mae Sisi received Alsons Dev’s awards presented by Atelier A President & CEO Carlo Cordaro (center) at the 12th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards
Announcing with pride that it has won two main titles and two Highly Commended awards at the 12th PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, which took place on September 6, 2024, at Shangri-La The Fort Manila, Taguig City, is Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev), the leading property developer in Davao.
The winner of the Best Housing Development (Metro Davao) award went to Narra Park Residences, while the Best Housing Development (Mindanao) went to Narra Park Residences Avia. Furthermore, Avia Estate won a Highly Commended award in the Best Mixed-use Development category, and Northtown Residences was recognized as the Best Subdivision Development.
These recognitions, awarded by the prestigious real estate award-giving body PropertyGuru Philippines in partnership with global brand Kohler, highlight the company’s ability to excel across a diverse range of real estate developments while maintaining high standards of excellence.
“We are incredibly proud to be recognized by the esteemed PropertyGuru Philippines. These accolades are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team, consistently striving to deliver exceptional communities,” said Miguel A. Dominguez, President and Chief Executive Officer of Alsons Dev.
Miguel Dominguez, President and CEO of Alsons Dev, delivers his acceptance speech, acknowledging the team’s efforts in securing these awards.
A look at the winning developments
With over 60 years of experience in Davao City, Alsons Dev has established itself as the city’s premier residential real estate developer. Through the recent expansion of its offerings to include mid-cost housing under its Nurtura Land & Home brand, Alsons Dev is able to serve a broader market. This move has proven successful with the twin wins of its housing projects.
Narra Park Residences, adjudged the Best Housing Development (Metro Davao) for two years in a row, offers Modern Asian-inspired homes that harmonize with expansive parks and family-friendly amenities designed to enhance the residents’ quality of life.
Narra Park Residences Avia, which won Best Housing Development (Mindanao), offers the same award-winning features to families in the SOCCSKSARGEN Region. Located in Alabel, Sarangani, it is nestled within Avia Estate, a mixed-use development that integrates prime residential communities, first-class leisure amenities, wide retail and commercial offerings, reputable educational institutions, and government support facilities in one address. Being the first township in the SOX region, Avia Estate was Highly Commended in the Best Mixed-use Development category.
The company’s leadership in Mindanao’s real estate market and its commitment to creating sustainable, people-centered developments are furthered by Alsons Dev’s numerous victories. The company’s continued focus is on spearheading innovations that would raise Mindanao’s level of living as it advances.
Alsons Dev representatives pose for a photo after accepting four prestigious awards at this year’s PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards, including Best Housing Development (Metro Davao) and Best Housing Development (Mindanao).
Continuing the commitment to excellence
Alsons Dev’s multiple wins reinforce the company’s leadership in Mindanao’s real estate sector and its vision of sustainable, people-centric developments. As the company moves forward, it remains focused on driving future innovations that will continue to uplift the standard of living in Mindanao.
The smell you can’t get enough of, BW Women Desire, is now available as a fascinating, creamy lotion. Feel the affection for your skin as you smear it on.
Why you must get your hands on this new innovation?
Smells amazing! Yep, it’s the same Desire scent you know and love.
Super moisturizing, your skin will thank you!
Skin-loving formula contains Niacinamide, Vitamin C, and Sunscreen filter for additional benefits! Such as promoting radiant complexion, brightening the skin, and protecting it against environmental stressors.
Convenient sizes. Big bottle for home, small one for your bag.
Brand representative of BW Women, Abegail Ilagan-Bagunas describes Desire scent as “a fresh and clean scent with a hint of floral sweetness.” Dubbed the #AmoyBaby scent on Tiktok, “It’s like a gentle breeze on a sunny day, with a touch of soft petals. Think of it as a comforting and familiar fragrance that’s perfect for everyday wear.”
According to Ilagan-Bagunas, it simply made sense to adopt the scent in new formats because it’s so well-loved. “When we released the 600ml size last year, TikTok went crazy! We sold 60,000 pcs online in just one month.” On developing a new size, she adds, “Later on, we received so much feedback asking for a smaller, travel friendly size. Of course, we had to make it happen!”
A pro-tip for locking in the scent you desire?
1. Moisturize. Apply BW Women Desire Lotion all over your body. This hydrates your skin and creates a perfect base for the fragrance.
2. Spray. Finish with a generous spritz of Blackwater Women Desire Deo Spray.
This combo lotion helps lock in the scent, keeping you smelling amazing from morning to night.
Enjoy a daily treat for yourself with Blackwater Women Desire Lotion. In addition to feeling amazing on your skin, it smells great.
Purchase the 100ml (Php 120) at reputable retailers such as Robinsons Dept. and Watsons. Savemore, SM Hypermarket, SM Supermarkets, Landmark, and all Mercury Drug Stores nationwide carry the 600ml (Php 240) version! Online retailers HML Beauty Hub on Shopee, Lazada, and @blackwaterph_ on Tiktok offer both sizes.
From left to right: Yvette Dizon-Deputy General Manager, Festival Mall; Ms. Denise Lagayan, VP and Corporate Marketing Head of Filinvest; ASec. Domingo R. Tolentino, Jr., DTI SCO; ASec. Grace F. Baluyan, DTI ROG; DTI R2 Regional Director Ma. Sofia G. Narag; DOT R2 Regional Director Troy Alexander G. Miano and DTI R2 ARD Henry O. Conel, Jr.
Padday na Lima is back in Manila! Cagayan Valley’s product showcase is again in the spotlight as the trade fair officially kicks off today, September 10, 2024, at Festival Mall Alabang in Muntinlupa.
This year’s trade fair comes with the theme, “Unveiling the Richness of Cagayan Valley’s Lands and Seas, A Fusion of Beauty and Bounty.” In the opening ceremony, the Department of Trade and Industry R2 Regional Director, Ma. Sofia G. Narag welcomed visitors to the fair, promising that they are going to be treated to a smorgasbord of the region’s freshest and finest products from the valley’s diverse agricultural and aquatic resources.
In a heartfelt display of support, the Acting Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry, Sec. Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, and Hon. Senator Loren B. Legarda conveyed their messages of support during the opening for Padday na Lima, emphasizing the vital role of MSMEs in strengthening the region’s economy.
Padday na Lima, an Ybanag vernacular for “made by hands”, aims to promote Cagayan Valley’s rich heritage and create fruitful unions with Manila-based advocates. In this week-long event, guests and Region 2 MSMEs alike are given exciting opportunities and unforgettable experiences like never before! This year’s fair will take visitors through a guided tour of the booths of Cagayan Valley MSMEs with a B2B matching activity for prospective endeavors between producers and consumers in Cagayan Valley and Manila. There are a wide array of other exciting activities at the fair including food and wine tasting, fun games, and a creative crafts demonstration. Another highlight of the trade fair is a fashion show named Hibla’t Having Rehiyon Dos: Padday na Lima Collections featuring Cagayan Valley’s unique weaves.
Clockwise from left: Steps Dance Troupe and ISU Music Ensemble, Hainrich Unite and Kristin Vivien Cacacho (Master of Ceremony), DTI R2 Regional Director Ma. Sofia G. Narag, CESO V
With a hundred exhibiting MSMEs and farmers boasting their wide array of products and services- from farm produce to processed foods, aquatic and fishery products, native delicacies, garden plants, to fashion and wearables, furniture, handicrafts, and tourism opportunities – visitors at the opening day were introduced to the wonders that Cagayan Valley has to offer to the Philippines and to the world. Pavillions highlighting each province in the region – Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, and Nueva Vizcaya- gave visitors a feel for not just their products but avenues for tourism and other potential investment projects as well.
Clockwise from left: ASec. Grace F. Baluyan, DTI ROG; Steps Dance Troupe and ISU Music Ensemble; ASec. Domingo R. Tolentino, Jr., DTI SCO
We invite everyone, from the average consumer to institutional buyers, to come visit and experience the richness of the valley through the 18th Padday na Lima. The Trade Fair will run from September 10 to September 16 at the Upper Ground Floor, Carousel Court, Festival Mall Alabang in Quezon City.
But don’t you worry, the fun doesn’t stop at Alabang! You may purchase the finest products of Cagayan Valley with just a few clicks. Shoppers may treat themselves with Padday na Lima’s products through these sites: Mayani.ph – Farm-fresh produce delivered to your doorstep and PaddayNaLima.com (through Deliver-E).
For more information, please visit their social media accounts: Facebook DTI.Region02; Instagram, X, and Tiktok dti.r2
Jollibee Group Foundation held a three-day Journey to Growth forum, wherein 17 farmer groups and some partner Local Government Units (LGUs), and organizations from various parts of Luzon and Visayas participated to exchange best practices and learn about agri-innovations and fundamentals of business planning.
Agro-entrepreneurs make many decisions and conduct business in large part by embracing new technology and methods and adjusting to the constantly shifting market conditions. Through the recently convened Journey to Growth Forum, the Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF), the social development arm of the Jollibee Group, facilitates the continued growth of these agro-entrepreneurs. The Forum seeks to improve smallholder farmers’ strategic thinking so they may keep developing their abilities and broaden their scope, paving the way for a secure future for agro-entrepreneurs.
Farmers, cooperatives, associations, local government entities, and partner groups came together in a spirited manner at the Forum. It included lively agri-innovation learning sessions, the most recent business news, focus groups, and seminars on strategic company planning. All of these activities were intended to provide attendees the skills and information they required to succeed in the modern agricultural environment.
Through its Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (FEP), JGF continues to empower smallholder farmers to thrive as agro-entrepreneurs and become economically self-sufficient by providing leadership and agro-entrepreneurship training that enhances their knowledge and skills.
JGF President Gisela Tiongson led the team in facilitating learning sessions, focus group discussions, and strategic business planning.
“The Journey to Growth Forum not only strengthened our relationship with partner farmers but also provided an ideal avenue for them to learn best practices and discover solutions to existing farming challenges,” said JGF President Gisela Tiongson. “We hope to aid our farmers in achieving sustainable growth by continuously providing workshops and training on leading edge and innovative approaches.”
Leadership and expertise
Experts from Jollibee Group’s global divisions—including Procurement, Insurance and Risk Management, Finance, Sustainability and Public Affairs, and the Data Office—spearheaded engaging discussions on key topics like customer service, supply assurance, operational efficiency, financial strength, sustainability, and leadership.
To deepen the impact, the Foundation brought in industry experts to share cutting-edge insights on agri-innovations. Miguel Garcia, Junior Operations Center Supervisor of the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), spoke about preparing for the possible upcoming La Nina.
Adding to the wealth of knowledge, Dr. Dionisio Bucao of Mariano Marcos State University emphasized the critical role of soil health in sustainable farming, while Arjay Aquino of Central Luzon State University shared actionable strategies for soil health restoration, ensuring that farmers are equipped with the latest sustainable practices.
Through breakout sessions, participants discussed challenges and devised viable solutions for better produce and sustainable farming practices.
Onion business planning
To keep farmers motivated and responsive to evolving challenges, JGF conducts an annual Onion Business Planning (OBP) session with FEP farmer groups already supplying the Jollibee Group. These dynamic and hands-on sessions encourage farmers to engage in lively discussions to update their onion business plans, monitor and evaluate progress, while collaborating to refine their production strategies. By making this a regular practice, farmers are not only staying on top of their game but are also building a community that supports innovation and resilience in the onion business.
The OBP prompts and drives collaborative actions necessary to tackle challenges head-on and elevate farming practices. In 2023 alone, FEP supplied 24% of Jollibee Group’s onion requirement. This year, FEP’s share is projected to grow to 33%.
Jollibee Group’s Global Chief Business Support Officer William Tan Untiong has shared that the FEP farmers have already fulfilled 90% of the company’s onion requirement as early as the second quarter of 2024
“We’re targeting 2,000 tons of onions for 2024. We’re only halfway through the year, but we have already reached 90% of our goal. We remain focused and determined to increase FEP’s total onion share and empower our smallholder farmers by helping them succeed in their agro-entrepreneurship journey,” William Tan Untiong, Jollibee Group Global Chief Business Support Officer said.
FEP farmer groups have delivered 1,367,000 kilos of vegetables to Jollibee Group in 2023, marking a significant recovery of their agro-enterprises and exceeding targets post pandemic. Since 2009, a total of 30 farmer groups, or 1,400 smallholder farmers, have collectively delivered 11 million kilos of quality vegetables with more than PHP500 million worth of sales to Jollibee Group.
This outstanding accomplishment emphasizes how crucial it is for farmers to constantly innovate and adapt. It’s more important than ever for farmers to keep ahead of the curve in an era defined by accelerating farming technology breakthroughs, escalating consumer expectations, and regulatory pressures.
In light of the evolving agricultural landscape, JGF is unwavering in its commitment to supporting agro-entrepreneurs in achieving a sustainable means of subsistence. JGF guarantees that farmers can confidently overcome obstacles and exploit opportunities by providing them with the necessary equipment and information, promoting efficiency and sustainability in every harvest.
