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In implementing Canvas LMS in collaboration with The University of Manchester, Instructure enhances digital and lifetime learning

The University selected the Canvas learning management system to offer a more consistent and modern approach to digital pedagogy, improve flexibility and better management tools for lifelong learning and non-traditional learners.

Canvas’s creator, Instructure Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: INST), the industry leader in the learning ecosystem, announced today that The University of Manchester has chosen Canvas to replace its antiquated learning management system (LMS) in order to better align with the institution’s strategic objectives, which include promoting lifelong learning and increasing course accessibility and flexibility.

“This platform is aimed at improving flexibility, functionality, and capabilities for teaching and learning for all of our learners, including continuing professional development (CPD),” said Professor Danielle George, Associate Vice President Blended and Flexible Learning, The University of Manchester.  “Canvas is praised for its intuitive interface, strong support, flexibility, integration capabilities, and the ability to share content, all of which are in line with the strategic direction of the University. Adopting Canvas by Instructure as our LMS will strengthen our commitment to lifelong learning.”

The choice to move providers was made after a careful analysis and a number of usability testing of all the options. Faculty and student response was overwhelmingly that their learning management system (LMS) should be doing more to improve efficacy, efficiency, and their pedagogical approach to creating online content. Canvas courses will be launched by the university for the 2025–2026 academic year.

The University of Manchester has invested in the full suite of Instructure products for higher education, which includes: Canvas LMS, Canvas Catalog, Canvas Studio, Canvas Credentials and Impact by Instructure a tool that supports change, drives adoption and helps institutions evaluate the impact of its edtech solutions based on data and analytics. Additionally, The University of Manchester will manage the migration of its courses with Instructure’s partner, K16 Solutions, and their automated migration functionality. Using the Canvas Archiving solution, they can also move the data from their former LMS into Canvas and retain years of historical data for accreditation purposes.

“As education keeps evolving and is constantly challenged by emerging technologies, we are proud to partner with The University of Manchester to support their efforts and aim to foster a flexible and modern lifelong learning experience not only in the United Kingdom but for thousands of international students around the world,” said Daniel Hill, Managing Director for Europe, Middle East and Africa at Instructure.

With 44,000 students, 12,000 faculty members, and 550,000 alumni from 190 countries, the University of Manchester is regarded as one of the UK’s most internationally diverse universities. Furthermore, it is an important collaborator in Manchester’s citywide lifelong learning program, which was recently recognized by UNESCO as a City of Lifelong Learning.

The University of Manchester is a prominent member of the Russell Group and one of the best universities in Europe.

Learn more at www.instructure.com/en-au 

May 7, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

Impact Pioneers Network helps Filipino impact entrepreneurs expand more quickly

  • The Network announced three new investment deals facilitated through their Working Capital Facility to provide financial support to three local impact enterprises Magnus Renewable Tech Corp., Agro-Digital PH, and Suds Sustainable Pods to scale their operations.
  • Impact Pioneers Network recently partnered with Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation (NWTF), Dungganon Bank, and a local angel investor to unlock growth capital for impact enterprises from various sectors in the Philippines.
  • The Network also unveiled that early-stage impact enterprises in the Philippines can now apply for loans through the gender-smart working capital loan facility throughout the year.

In order to give three impact firms in the Philippines expansion money, Impact Pioneers Network (IPN), the nation’s first impact investing network, forged important alliances with Dungganon Bank, Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation (NWTF), and an angel investor.

Magnus Renewable Tech Corp., Agro-Digital PH, and Suds Sustainable Pods have all benefited from these partnerships by obtaining loans without the need for collateral to help them expand. “The Network and our partners aim to accelerate sustainable development and empower communities nationwide through innovative solutions,” stated Priya Thachadi, co-founder and CEO of Villgro Philippines, one of the Network’s co-managers, “by unlocking crucial financing to impact enterprises like Magnus Renewable Tech Corp., Agro-Digital PH, and Suds Sustainable Pods.”  

Magnus Renewable Tech Corp., an enterprise focusing on solar energy solutions based in Negros Oriental, will utilize the working capital provided to increase solar energy access to communities nationwide. “The facility allows us to fund a pilot project which opens up a huge opportunity for Magnus,” said Karl Ivan Estadola, CEO and Co-Founder of Magnus Renewable Tech Corp.

Agro-Digital PH, an innovative digital platform empowering farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity, will harness the loan to advance its technology and broaden its farmer network. Agro-Digital PH CEO and Founder Henry James Sison emphasized, “The working capital loan facilitated by the Network ensures our ability to expand markets and uphold service delivery. It is a critical lifeline for our operations.”

These enterprises demonstrate the crucial role of market-driven models in addressing urgent social and climate challenges in the country. “We are excited to support growing enterprises like Agro-Digital and Magnus Renewable as they truly address relevant issues such as enhancing agricultural productivity and clean energy.  These enterprises provide real hope in the development of our country,” said Raymond Serios of Dungganon Bank, Inc. & Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation, Inc. “As a member of the Impact Pioneers Network, we hope to be working with similar enterprises so that we can maximize our reach and ensure that more and more Filipinos benefit from the work of these social enterprises.”

Suds Sustainable Pods, known for its innovative personal hygiene and household cleaning products packaged in water-soluble film, also received a working capital loan from an individual angel investor from the Network to scale up operations and further diversify its product line to lessen plastic pollution. “Their support has allowed us to allocate resources towards optimizing essential business processes that strengthen compliance and operational efficiency. This empowers us to continue expanding our reach and deliver greater value to our stakeholders.” said Jean Magboo-Yuzon, Co-Founder of Suds Sustainable Pods.

The Network, alongside its investors, shares its commitment to fostering positive social and environmental change through innovative impact investing approaches.

Economic development is also aided by impact investing. Impact investment encourages equitable opportunities and economic progress by funding companies that uplift local communities and generate jobs.

The Network highlights this important component with its gender-smart working capital facility, which is now accepting applications from early-stage impact entrepreneurs in the Philippines throughout the year. This institution will promote firms owned or run by women, offering short-term, collateral-free loans up to PHP 250,000 to those making a direct impact on the environment or society.

Please visit www.impactpioneers.ph to learn more about Impact Pioneers Network and its partners.

May 6, 2024 by
Food, News

URC ENDORSES THE AGAWAN FESTIVAL 2024


TARA NA SA SARIAYA!  Universal Robina Corporation (URC) Flour Division has partnered with the local government unit of Sariaya, Quezon for this year’s Agawan Festival. Aiming to make the festivities bigger and grander, URC will sponsor the “Pinagong” eating activity, “Agawan sa Bagakay,” and the Street Dancing Competition.  URC Flour Division Operations Director Dario Arive Jr. and Sariaya Quezon Mayor Marcelo Gayeta led the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing. Witnessing the signing were (L-R) Graziella Mae Pons, URC HR Officer and HR Business Partner; Gemma Tacata, URC Senior Manager and EHSS; Lanie Mendoza, Sariaya Municipal Treasurer and Public Market Administrator; Marivic Gayeta, Organizer – Agawan Festival 2024; and Renaliz Miguel, Representative of Sariaya Tourism Culture and the Arts Office (STCAO).

For a larger and greater celebration of this year’s Agawan Festival, Universal Robina Corporation, through its Flour Division, has teamed with the Sariaya, Quezon local government unit and the Sariaya Tourism Culture and the Arts Office (STCAO).

Every year on May 15, Sariaya, Quezon hosts the Agawan Festival, a harvest celebration honoring Saint Isidore the Laborer, the patron saint of agriculture and bountiful harvests. One of the four harvest festivals observed in the province of Quezon, the event is dubbed the “Happy Pandemonium.”

During the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), Sariaya Mayor Marcelo Gayeta and his wife, Marivic Gayeta, who is currently heading the organizing committee of this year’s Agawan Festival, welcomed the sponsorship of URC Flour Division.

“Masayang masaya ang bayan ng Sariaya dahil kasama namin ngayong taon ang Universal Robina Corporation Flour Division. Talagang masasabi naming sila ay kaagapay ng ating bayan sa pagpapaunlad dahil sa kanilang bagong bukas na planta na tiyak magbibigay ng trabaho sa ating mga kababayan dito sa Sariaya” Mayor Gayeta shared.

The URC Flour Division is one of the top flour millers in the Philippines. With plants located in Manila, Sariaya, and Davao, the division has a combined milling capacity of 2,150 metric tons per day. The state-of-the-art flour mills and blending facilities allow the division to manufacture customized products that fit the specific needs of its customers.

URC’s sponsorship of the Agawan Festival 2024 is the company’s way of appreciating Sariaya’s support when the town welcomed the opening and operation of their flour mills and blending facilities located in Barangay Talaan, Aplaya Road in Sariaya, Quezon.

The company will sponsor some of the activities including: the “Pinagong” eating activity targeting 3,000 people; the “Agawan sa Bagakay” with special prizes to be won by participants; and the Street Dance contest where dancers will be using “upcycled” sacks as their costume. URC will be donating used flour sacks for the dancers to use in their presentation.

“We creatively developed the “Pinagong” eating activity. Since URC is a producer of quality and world-class flour, we will donate our products to our partner bakeries for them to produce 3,000 pieces of the town’s famous and delicious “Pinagong” breads. Aside from the procession and other fun activities, this unique eating event will be one of the highlights of this year’s Agawan Festival. Exciting is an understatement for this activity!” said Naida Ebora, Sales, Marketing and Distribution Director, URC Flour.

Marivic Gayeta, wife of Mayor Gayeta and lead organizer of this year’s Agawan Festival, is also thrilled with the collaboration. “Ikinalulugod ng bayan ng Sariaya na kami ay inisponsoran ng URC sa aming nalalapit na kapistahan. Sigurado kami na ang aming mga kababayang makikilahok sa pagdiriwang ng fiesta, pati na rin ang mga turista na dadayo at makikisali ay matutuwa sa mga programang aming hinanda kasama ng URC.”  

The annual Agawan Festival features a fiesta procession where people playfully snatch goodies and other produce hanging from the houses (or “pabitin”) as the parade winds its way down the streets. Colorful buntal hats are festooned all over the façade of houses. String beans are draped on windows like curtains, and banana leaves are used to adorn fences. The most traditional elements in the decorations are the bagakay, or young bamboo branches from which junk food, native delicacies such as the kiping, fruits, candies and money, are hung for people to collect as they pass by.

In 2024, the yearly celebrations will mark their 25th year. The town’s former parish priest, Rev. Fr., is recognized for creating the term “Agawan.” Raul Enriquez was an advocate for the town’s 1999 quadricentennial celebration and the previous head of the Sariaya Tourism Council.

To obtain all the information regarding the Agawan Festival in 2024, go to the Sariaya Tourism, Culture, and Arts Office’s official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558511802745

May 4, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

In its sixth year, New Bold University launches a branding masterclass to develop the next generation of brand leaders

For its sixth iteration, New Bold University (NBU), hailed for emulating the avant-garde philosophy of Silicon Valley’s Singularity University, is returning to the forefront.

“Visionary NXT: Branding Masterclass for the Next Big Brands.” is slated to take place at The Astbury in Makati City on May 10–11, 2024. Its goal is to equip up-and-coming firms with cutting-edge marketing tactics that are crucial for dominating their respective markets. “Visionary NXT” is positioned to be a crucial conference for the upcoming generation of brand leaders as NBU keeps providing local business owners with insights from both the global and local markets.

This two-day event, which is in its sixth year, seeks to give business owners, startup founders, and marketing professionals the skills and resources they need to completely change the branding landscape. It gives attendees the tools they need to make a significant difference in their particular industries while offering practical techniques for brand success.

With the many disruptions in the marketplace, the dynamics of branding and marketing have shifted. NBU’s response to these challenges offers strategies and visionary thinking needed in today’s market. It seeks to cultivate a community of 1,000 visionary brand builders in the next two years who will lead the charge in creating disruptive and socially impactful brands.

NBU’s Founder, Ralph Layco, envisions this initiative as a pivotal moment for the branding community. “Visionary NXT represents a significant evolution from our previous masterclasses. We are not just exploring brand strategies; we are inspiring a new generation of brand pioneers who will lead the charge in driving innovation and change. They need guidance and new strategies, and most importantly, the mindset to disrupt their categories. We are here to guide and empower them,” said Layco.

Featuring a lineup of industry titans including Colourette Cosmetics CEO and NIV Della Beauty Innovations, Inc. Founder Nina Dizon, Tala by Kyla Founder Janet Kyla, Rolling Media Founder Jozelle Tech, Good Diva Marketing Founder Mariella Tiano, Agyle Brands Founder Guita Gopalan, and Noah and Eve Center and NBU Founder Ralph Layco, who are set to deliver invaluable insights into brand strategy, innovation, and growth. The group from Kaya Founders will also join the event.

Attendees may anticipate an engaging program that includes networking opportunities, coaching sessions, and workshops aimed at promoting teamwork and creativity.

The Man, The Maverick, Mink.ph, and Hiraya Pilipina brand creators spoke at a series of online brand talks staged in advance of the much-anticipated event in May in order to create the scene and spark interest.

Participants who are interested can reach out to NBU via their official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/newboldu.

May 3, 2024 by
Food, News

The Marilao Commissary of Mang Inasal has achieved zero waste to landfill status

The commissary has fulfilled one of the Waste Reduction focus areas of Jollibee Group’s global sustainability agenda


While all Jollibee Group-owned and brand commissaries are already engaged in their own waste reduction efforts, Mang Inasal Marilao commissary is the first site to reach a 100% Zero Waste to Landfill status in 2023. Their concerted waste reduction efforts include co-processing residual waste (as seen in the photo) as alternative fuel for cement production.

In keeping with its efforts to strengthen its sustainability practices, the Jollibee Group celebrates the strengthening of the implementation of its Corporate Supply Chain Sustainability Program, which spans 11 company-owned commissaries and one logistics center nationwide, marking a major milestone for one of its brands.

The comprehensive program aims to achieve significant goals and efforts related to waste reduction, water and energy efficiency, and alignment with the Jollibee Group’s Joy For Tomorrow sustainability plan.

Mang Inasal’s (MI) Marilao Commissary is pushing the trash reduction initiative farther; in 2023, it attained Zero trash to Landfill Status. The MI Marilao Commissary made use of co-processing residual waste as an alternative fuel for cement manufacture, recovering and repurposing scrap garbage, and turning organic waste into compost in order to accomplish this.

During the 2020 baseline year, MI Marilao Commissary has sustainably disposed of 53% of its total waste. With the leaders and the team’s dedication and teamwork, the site has gradually increased its sustainable disposal to 85% in 2021, 91% in 2022, and 97% at the start of 2023 before reaching 100% status by June of 2023.


Waste Reduction is one of the focus areas of the Jollibee Group’s global sustainability agenda whose goals include reducing food loss and waste to landfill in the manufacturing process.  
 

Sustainability achievements

Waste Reduction is one of the focus areas of the Jollibee Group’s global sustainability agenda whose goals include reducing food loss and waste to landfill in the manufacturing process. These goals were set to contribute to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), particularly “Responsible Consumption and Production” (Goal #12).  

Jose Miñana Jr., Chief Sustainability and Public Affairs Officer at the Jollibee Group, underscored the company’s proactive approach to integrating sustainable waste management practices into operations. “We prioritize recovering, reusing, and recycling waste that contribute to the creation of a more sustainable food system, ensuring that we can continue to nourish and sustain our communities and our planet for future generations.”


During the 2020 baseline year, MI Marilao Commissary has sustainably disposed of 53% of its total waste. With the leaders and the team’s dedication and teamwork, the site has gradually increased its sustainable disposal to 85% in 2021, 91% in 2022, and 97% at the start of 2023 before reaching 100% status by June of 2023.
 

The production locations of the Jollibee Group across the nation achieved a combined 42.8% reduction in waste-generated ratio last year compared to the company’s 2020 baseline thanks to its ongoing commitment to sustainable business practices. Over 51% of its garbage was disposed of sustainably by the end of 2023, a notable rise from 39.7% in 2021.

“The results achieved by Mang Inasal’s Marilao Commissary will be our benchmark for waste reduction implementation across all Jollibee Group manufacturing sites in the country, consistent with our commitment to maximize use of resources and reduce our impact on the environment,” stressed Michael Ong, vice president and head of supply chain at Jollibee Group.

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

May 2, 2024 by
Food, News

Creating the Future of Health and Food: Taro Fujie, Global President and CEO of Ajinomoto, is in Manila, Philippines


(L-R) Hironori Aoki, Director for Sales, Marketing and Public Relations of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC), Taro Fujie, President and CEO of Ajinomoto Co., Inc., Koichi Ozaki, President of APC and Ernie Carlos, Chief Sustainability Officer of APC.

With specific strategies up until 2030 that aim to promote the improvement of environmental health and human wellness, Ajinomoto Co., Inc. and the entire Ajinomoto Group are continuing to march towards a better and sustainable future. The multinational corporation seeks to improve consumer value, promote a healthy lifestyle, and address important food and health issues in order to help one billion people live longer lives worldwide.

The leadership by example of Ajinomoto’s President and CEO, Mr. Taro Fujie, who visited the Philippines and hosted a media conference in Quezon City, is evidence of the company’s dedication to helping to create a healthy future for everyone. Mr. Taro gave a summary of the 2030 Strategic Roadmap and the Ajinomoto Group’s Medium-Term ASV management during the discussion.

During Mr. Taro Fujie’s speech, he reiterated Ajinomoto’s core purpose, which is to be able to contribute to the well-being of all human beings, our society and our planet with “AminoScience”. With this, Ajinomoto aims to reduce our environmental impact by 50% in turn, regenerate our environment, and help extend the life expectancy of one billion people through better health and life. True to Ajinomoto’s corporate slogan, Eat Well, Live Well, Mr. Taro Fujie shares that the company has been relentless in living up to its ways, with creating new value, championing the pioneer spirit, engaging in social contribution,  which all ultimately values people, not just their customers. All these efforts are rooted all the way back from the company’s founding, where Ajinomoto promotes management that co-creates social value and economic value through its business, which they coined as ASV or the Ajinomoto Group Creating Shared Value.

“2030 is closer than we all think it is, but it is my great honor to share with you, that we, in the whole of Ajinomoto Group, will remain as enthusiastic as we are now, to achieve what needs to be achieved for the betterment of our society, and all of us in this world, and that we share every milestone with you, as our companions in this journey,” says Mr. Taro Fujie, Ajinomoto Co., Inc. President and CEO.

Mr. Taro Fujie has also set the expectations that the Ajinomoto Group has for Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC), which he is confident that APC will do everything in its capabilities to achieve. APC is expected to keep contributing to resolving social issues for the well-being of the Filipinos, the society, and the planet through initiatives led by the ASV, while being able to diversify its business steadily progressing from seasonings to frozen foods, supplements, and more in the future.

“It is my pleasure, and a great honor, to meet you all today, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation. I am indeed certain that you will continue to cultivate an environment where employees remain diverse, highly motivated, and engaged, as you are our essential and greatest intangible assets.” ends Mr. Taro Fujie.

Earlier during the day, Mr. Taro Fujie and Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte engaged in an exchange where outlooks focused on sustainability and community development through co-creating a greener tomorrow, through the Saricycle Program of APC. Mr. Taro Fujie was also able to engage in a first-hand experience as he visited one of the participating sari-sari stores in Feria Road Old Balara, Quezon City.

The road to a more sustainable tomorrow is paved by innovative strategies and collaborations. Just recently, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation partnered with different stakeholders, including the Local Government of Quezon City and Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies (BEST), for the SariCycle Program. The program is a flagship plastic collection drive of APC Group that is focused on sari-sari stores and market stalls which incentives them to collect Single Use Plastics (SUPs) or Flexible Plastics from their customers which the store owner can exchange for Environmental Points (EPs) that is good as cash for participating merchants. APC also partnered with ACEN Res, allowing APC’s Bulacan factory to run on 100% renewable energy, with the goal of lessening its environmental footprint.

From 2011 till 2015, Mr. Taro Fujie served as president of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation. And he has returned to the Philippines after nearly a decade, this time in the capacity of President and CEO of Ajinomoto Co., Inc. He has conveyed his appreciation to the APC Group and, above all, the Filipino community, which has long supported the Ajinomoto name. Ajinomoto genuinely believes that in the near future, all of our combined efforts will undoubtedly be enjoyed by the generations to come, whose mindsets have been instilled with the same responsibility of taking part in nurturing our environment while living a healthy life. Ajinomoto is committed to serving the community through managing the Ajinomoto business and co-creating a better future for everyone.

To learn more, visit www.ajinomoto.com.

May 2, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

At the 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards for Network Infrastructure and Thought Leadership, Eastern Communications Secures a Double Win

The top telecommunications company in the Philippines, Eastern Communications, won a Bronze Stevie Award at the 2024 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, gaining recognition on a global scale. The organization that bestows awards recognizes exceptional commercial accomplishments throughout the area, honoring companies and individuals that exhibit success in a range of industries.

“We are honored to be recognized once again by the APAC Stevie Awards. This win reaffirms our role in driving the digital transformation in the Philippines. We will continue to empower businesses and communities through our infrastructure expansion and ICT education initiatives,” said Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications.

With its statewide push to strengthen its infrastructure, increase its footprint, and service varied telecommunication demands throughout the Philippines, Eastern won the bronze award for Innovation in Technology Management, Planning & Implementation (Telecommunications Industries).

By the end of 2023, the company had effectively expanded its network reach by over 98% with a dedicated expenditure of Php 4.3 billion. One of its primary strategic objectives was the installation of terrestrial and submarine cable infrastructure in underserved areas, enabling improved connectivity and access to digital services.

Eastern’s continued support for the nation’s digital transformation was exemplified through its collaboration in the Philippine Domestic Submarine Cable Network (PDSCN) project, establishing resilient undersea fiber-optic connectivity to 24 segments and 33 points of interconnection (POIs).

Moreover, the company maintained its position as an industry thought leader by securing the bronze recognition for Thought Leadership Campaign of the Year once again. Its B2B campaign for focus industries provided valuable insights and support across key industries to navigate the challenges of the post-pandemic market.

Through strategic partnerships with industry associations and business chambers, Eastern Communications launched the Ehuddle and Eastern Huddle campaigns that featured webinars, on-ground learning sessions, and events focused on topics such as resilience, digital transformation, and future-proofing businesses.

“We believe that digitalization will propel businesses forward. By sharing our expertise to Filipino enterprises, we not only support their individual growth but also contribute to the economic progress of our community and stakeholders,” said Vince Tempongko, Eastern Communications’ Co-Coordinator.

“As we continue to launch new products and build meaningful partnerships, we endeavor to bring innovations that will drive sustainable growth and progress across the nation,” he added.

For additional information regarding Eastern Communications’ offerings, reach out to them at 5300-7000 or at their website, eastern.com.ph.

April 29, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

Manulife Enhances Its Digital, Customer-Centric Offerings And Winning Culture By Appointing New Chief Marketing Officer And Chief HR Officer

Sonali Verma

Leading international financial services provider Manulife’s Philippine operation recently announced the hiring of Ardhi Lufti Siregar as the organization’s new Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) and Sonali Verma as its new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).

Sonali Verma has over 18 years of leadership experience in bank partnerships, customer experience, and digital innovation. She was previously Manulife’s Head of Digital Customer Experience and Innovation for Asia Bancassurance. In her former position, she oversaw innovative projects in the field of digital bancassurance, such as the Manulife-DBS Bank digital channel’s successful launch and Techombank’s first digital protection offering in Vietnam. In her role as CMO for Manulife Philippines, Verma will spearhead creative marketing tactics to support Manulife in enhancing its customer offerings in the areas of retirement, health and life insurance, and digitalization; she will also spearhead customer-centric propositions, community investments, and the Impact Agenda, all while bolstering the company’s overall reputation and position as a market leader.

“As our new CMO, Sonali’s track record of delivering results amid innovation and development trends in the insurance space proves her leadership capability to empower our distribution teams with dynamic, relevant, and data-driven programs, accelerating our journey towards becoming the most digital, customer-centric global company in our industry,” said Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines.

Ardhi Lufti Siregar

Ardhi Lufti Siregar, as the company’s new CHRO, expands his decade of leadership experience spanning banking, technology, and insurance. He previously served as the head of Human Resources for Manulife Business Processing Services in the Philippines, and as Manulife Indonesia’s CHRO. As part of Manulife’s senior leadership team, Siregar will be pivotal in driving Manulife’s culture, talent strategy and employee engagement; enhancing its talent acquisition and retention; and strengthening diversity, equity, and inclusion in their workforce.

“Driven by his extensive leadership experience and expertise in fostering an inclusive and empowering culture, Ardhi will be instrumental in our ongoing efforts to attract and retain top talent, and build on our winning team to accelerate our goals for our customers and other stakeholders. We welcome Ardhi’s addition to our top management as we continuously sustain a supportive and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and inspired to reach their full potential,” Hora added. 

Learn more about Manulife Philippines by visiting their website manulife.com.ph and following them on Facebook (facebook.com/ManulifePH), Twitter (@ManulifePH), and Instagram (@manulifeph).

April 25, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

Schneider Electric and NVIDIA collaborate to optimize AI for data center performance, scalability, and energy efficiency


Schneider Electric recently partnered with artificial intelligence (AI) computing company NVIDIA to introduce the world’s first publicly available AI data center reference designs for energy efficiency.

Leading global provider of energy management and digital automation, Schneider Electric, collaborates with NVIDIA, a leader in artificial intelligence (AI) computing, to maximize data center energy efficiency with AI.

The collaboration will launch the first AI data center reference designs in the world. In order to increase efficiency and lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, these designs will combine Schneider Electric’s knowledge of digital infrastructures with NVIDIA’s AI technologies, establishing new benchmarks for AI deployment and operations within data center ecosystems.

Pankaj Sharma, Executive Vice President of the Secure Power Division & Data Center Business at Schneider Electric, highlighted the significance of this partnership: “By combining our expertise in data center solutions with NVIDIA’s leadership in AI technologies, we’re not just overcoming infrastructure limitations; we’re unlocking the full potential of AI.”

“This collaboration is a leap forward towards a more efficient, sustainable, and transformative future, powered by AI,” Sharma added as he stressed that the data center industry continues to evolve, which calls for a stronger focus on integrating AI technologies to their operations and addressing Scope 3 emissions to achieve net-zero emissions.

Scope 3 emissions account for about 50% of data centers’ GHG footprint. According to GHG Protocol and ISO 14064, Scope 3 emissions are indirect emissions attributed to the activities of companies which include business travel, waste management, and value chain operations. This type of emission is often not reported and is more challenging to measure compared to Scope 1 and 2 emissions.

These indirect emissions are major but often overlooked drivers of environmental impact of data centers. As a response, Schneider Electric is advocating for a holistic approach to GHG management, which includes accurate carbon accounting, target-setting, and a systematic review of data and emission sources.

Schneider Electric provides accounting and reporting solutions for data centers in order to manage their emissions under Scope 3. One tool for simulating energy use to estimate greenhouse gas emissions is included in this, taking into account the data center’s power use, cooling systems, and operational efficiency.

“This approach aligns with our commitment in leading the charge to equip critical and energy-intensive industries such as data centers with advanced solutions to help them achieve better operational efficiency all while minimizing their carbon emissions beyond traditional means,” said Abraham Lim, Secure Power and Industrial Automation BVP of Schneider Electric Philippines.

Schneider Electric is still dedicated to pursuing the digital transformation of sectors in order to maintain environmental sustainability worldwide and stay up to date with technological breakthroughs.

April 24, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

Here’s how obtaining a personal loan from Digido might win you an iPhone 15 Pro Max

Existing clients of the platform who took a reloan during the promo period are eligible for the giveaway

This summer, one of Digido‘s clients will receive a highly sought-after iPhone 15 Pro Max thanks to the multi-awarded consumer finance company.

The promotion is open to returning Digido platform users who apply between April 23, 2024, and June 20, 2024. For every successful reloan transaction, clients will receive one lottery entry.

Using the client’s Lifetime ID, the giveaway winner will be revealed on Digido’s official Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/digidoph/).

First-time borrowers can receive up to PHP 4,000 with 0% interest through Digido’s First Loan For Free program, while returning customers can receive a normal Personal Loan up to PHP 25,000. It is available via its official website, digido.ph, Lazada Loans, and its applications on Google Play and the iOS App Store.

Digido’s inclusive, trustworthy, and safe digital lending services have been utilized by over a million Filipinos.

Commenting on the promotion, Digido business development manager Rose Arreco said: “This new giveaway is especially for our valued clients who have been clamoring for more rewards as they continue to use our trusted, safe and inclusive lending platform. We commit to not only innovate the way we deliver our services, but to also find more ways to delight our customer.

The winner will be announced on July 9, 2024 through Digido’s official Facebook page. The winner shall be notified via registered email and a call through their registered mobile number.

Research from Statista revealed that the number of smartphone users in the Philippines in 2023 were at 50.94 million and is projected to reach 96.12 million by 2029.

Notes for Editors

  • Additional details on eligibility:

-The raffle draw will happen in the office of the corporation, Level 7 Cyberpark Tower 1, 60 Gen. Aguinaldo Ave., Cubao, Quezon City, on July 8, 2024 with the presence of DTI representative in-charge via Zoom.

-In claiming the prize, the winner is required to present at least 1 valid ID and his/her Digido app where we can see his/her Digido Lifetime ID. Digido reserves the right to require additional proof of identity for validation purposes

April 24, 2024 by