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The effects of increased urbanization pose a threat to Metro Manila’s predicted status as a world power. Climate change, natural disasters that impair urban infrastructure and city competitiveness, unequal livability, job creation, and poverty reduction are some of the effects listed by UN-Habitat.

Does there exist a solution to Metro Manila’s problems? Chintan Raveshia, an architect and urban designer, and Tony Chan, an urban planner and sustainability consultant at Arup in Singapore, underline that while planning an urban area, citizens’ goals, changing requirements and expectations, and national identity should all be taken into account.

Finding the identity of the city

Raveshia inspires responsible stakeholders to ask themselves first the most fundamental question: “What’s the identity of the city and how do we make its residents proud?”

He quips, “Singapore, a city that is high on everyone’s liveability list, is also working with citizens and grass roots organizations to inculcate a sense of ‘lovability’ for the city. This helps to strengthen the societal bond, increase equity, improve community safety, and exude pride and a feeling of ownership of the city amongst the residents. The balance of liveability, efficiency, and lovability paves the way for a true success of our cities in this climate emergency era”.

For his part, Chan believes that a successful sustainable urban development goes hand in hand with the capability to enhance people’s quality of life.[RKRC1]  “We must develop and harness models of development that have low-carbon targets, which are also of a human scale, thriving and inclusive; models that are also just, secured and enhances the quality of life for all its residents. In addition, we should look at creative ways to increase local citizen participation as well as new technologies or products that can support the overarching vision and development objectives”, says Chan.

If Singapore reclaims lands for more affordable housing and increased integrated city developments and Melbourne builds accessible green spaces to promote social interaction, what plans would best fit Metro Manila’s sustainable and livable future while maintaining its identity? Here are five urban development aspirations Filipinos hope for the country’s main political and economic hub.

1. Accessibility across all social classes

While Metro Manila is the Philippines’ major economic driver – accounting for 32% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) – it’s often challenged in sustaining accessible living conditions for residents across all social classes. UK-based The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) ranked Metro Manila 105th out of 139 cities in the Global Liveability Index 2022. The increasing population density in Metro Manila has resulted in some inconveniences in daily conditions like vehicular traffic situations, least green open spaces, high carbon footprint, inaccessibility to affordable housing, and unequal income opportunities.

Urban planners and developers suggest mixed-use planning in the metropolis and coastal developments because they are crucial to achieving the 15-minute concept. Here, residents across all walks of life are encouraged to live a healthy, affordable, and sustainable lifestyle because residential, commercial, and office spaces are integrated within a single development.

2. Open green spaces for a healthy and sustainable living environment

Studies shows that Metro Manila has only 5 square meters of green space available per person, this number is well below the 9 square meters set by the World Health Organization.COVID-19 had the entire world reassess their health conditions, lifestyle practices, and environmental situations. The impact was even more drastic in Metro Manila due to population density, crowded space, and insufficient parks and open areas.

Aside from improving air quality and enhancing biodiversity, green spaces also moderate temperatures during the warm season.

3. Enhancing Human health and wellbeing

Cities with sufficient healthcare facilities, access to health coverage, and infrastructures that enhance well-being and promote a healthy lifestyle, produce prosperous societies.

The way cities are planned, designed, and executed has a crucial impact on how people live as it presents opportunities and effects on their lifestyles and overall well-being. While there is evident progress in Metro Manila’s health sector, rapid urbanization continues to pose risks in communities due to challenges in overcrowded neighborhoods, vehicular emissions, heavy traffic, pollution, and flood-prone areas.

4. Resilient community

Resilience is the capacity of individuals, communities, and systems to adapt, survive, and grow in the face of stress and shocks, and even transform when conditions require it. Relevant dimensions under the City Resilience Index (https://www.cityresilienceindex.org) by the Rockefeller Foundation & Arup, other dimensions include Health & Well Being, Economy & Society, Infrastructure & Environment as well as Leadership & Strategy

As Philippines and Manila grows, we face a dual challenge of adapting to climate change and the need to alter development strategies that are increasingly contributing to global warming. Philippines is among the top 10 countries in the world most affected by climate change in the past 20 years, according to the Global Climate Risk Index As an archipelago, impacts resulting from climate change are immense. In addition, metro Manila’s safety and resilience are endangered by various natural disasters.

Natural disasters persist every season due to our geographical location.

Well-planned and executed urban designs have the power to build safe and resilient communities in Metro Manila.  Infrastructures like proper bike lanes and walkable streets ensure residents’ safety, accessibility, and comfort, whereas science and technology-based solutions that can build flexible structures, multi-use systems, and technologies can help residents adapt and prepare for changing conditions.

5. Global and competitive city

Metro Manila is one of Asia’s premier regions. As the country’s engine growth driver, it has growing investments in infrastructures and multitudes of business investments and developments.

The metropolis’ rising potential can further step up by following global models like Singapore, Melbourne, and Hong Kong which created several integrated cities and coastal developments that ushered in a vibrant economy and paved for a better urban lifestyle. These visions create an avenue to further increase opportunities for jobs, better education, better lifestyle, and bustling economic activities.

These can contribute to the Philippines’ national and local economies by driving tourism and infrastructure development while also creating equitable and inclusive communities. These, in turn, create a wider room of opportunities and, therefore, attracts more talent.

Building inclusive and sustainable growth centers

Communities will be revitalized when introduced to well-designed, master-planned, and implemented initiatives if all stakeholders are heard and taken into account. Because it encourages more inclusive growth and makes the urban environment an extension of their homes, this will have a long-term effect on Metro Manila’s future and its citizens.

A city is moving toward competitiveness and unlocked future potential when it accepts its history, celebrates its landmarks, innovates and adopts for the future, and most importantly, nourishes its citizens and responds to their desires.

How about you? What do you want your city to be like?

 [RKRC1]

To advance the Philippines’ quest of sustainable development, SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) and the University of the Philippines Los Banos (UPLB) have cooperated.

Through a scholarship grant, SM Prime wants to help select deserving students finish their undergraduate degrees in sustainability-focused courses like Bachelor of Science in Human Ecology (BSHE) and Bachelor of Science in Forestry (BSF).

The scholarship, which will be given to students from low-income families in Pasay City, aims to improve employment chances and contribute to the reduction of poverty and inequality, two fundamental barriers to sustainable development.

Collaboration for innovation and sustainability

In an interview, UPLB Chancellor Dr. Jose Camacho, Jr. shared his optimism about the partnership, citing the impact of education, especially sustainability-related fields of studies, in social and economic mobility.

“The scholarship will enable more students to pursue their studies in areas related to sustainability such as environmental science, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture. By investing in education in these areas, we are preparing a new generation of leaders who will have the knowledge and skills to address the complex environmental and social challenges facing our world today,” Dr. Camacho said.

“It will encourage research and development in areas related to sustainability. By providing support for students to pursue advanced studies, we are creating a pipeline of future researchers and innovators who can develop solutions to pressing environmental and social problems,” he added.

Aside from enabling students to pursue their education without financial burden, the UPLB chancellor believes that the scholarship can produce competent leaders capable of solving complex environmental and social challenges, and create a pipeline of innovative researchers.

He further stressed how fostering collaborations and innovation in sustainability between the academic community and the private sector can lead to new environmentally and socially responsible products, technologies, and services that contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals.

Ripples of social good

SM Prime AVP and Head of Marketing, PR, and Communications Rida Reyes Castillo shared that the partnership between SM Prime and UPLB is a testament to the shared commitment of both institutions towards promoting sustainability and creating a better future for the next generation.

By supporting the education of would-be scholars, SM Prime hopes to create ripples of social good within families and communities, ultimately contributing to the development of a more sustainable and equitable society.

“Improving the well-being of its partner communities and investing in people’s growth have long been among SM Prime’s sustainability pillars woven at the core of its business strategies and operations. As such, SM Prime deems it important to create programs that would provide access to quality education for all, and in the long term, create a pool of proactive human resources who can responsibly carry out and balance the economic, social and environmental aspects of a society’s sustainable development aspirations,” Castillo said.

“SM Prime believes UPLB would be the best partner to support its sustainability initiatives in promoting a conducive learning environment while honing new Iskolars ng Bayan leaders committed to knowledge creation and public service,” she also said.

Students from Pasay City enrolled in UPLB’s BSHE and BSF programs having a gross family income of no more than PhP150,000 are eligible for the SM Prime Sustainability Scholarship.

Interested candidates can reach the UPLB OSG by phone at +63 49 536 3209 or email at [email protected] for additional information.

Everyone’s favorite place to take their pets for a day out is Bonifacio Global City (BGC). From open parks where they can run loose to pet-friendly businesses, both people and animals are sure to have a good time at BGC.

In fact, BGC has celebrated the Pet Huddle since 2021. This pet fair features local companies that provide for pets’ daily requirements as well as entertaining activities for fur parents and young animals. The fourth Pet Huddle, the biggest pawty of the summer, will be held at BGC in 2023, and it promises to be back and better than before!

To be held this April 22 and 23 and in partnership with pet apparel line Hey Pacey, take a stroll by Fifth Avenue at Bonifacio High Street for a pawsome bonding day with your furbabies! Fur parents can expect a total of 50 merchants, all small businesses, to splurge on their pets with; while pets coming over can have their own fun with activities ranging from a Pet Parade, Pet Blessing, and a Pawject Runway that’ll see participating pets striking their best paw-se!

Fashion at its best

From witty statement shirts, quirky bandanas, to dainty dresses, getting to comfortably dress our pets up is a highlight for every fur parent. To let you stock up on your pets’ wardrobe, this year’s Pet Huddle has you covered with merchants ranging from Chuyo Paws, Nini & Co, to Barktown to keep your fur babies in style!

Food brands to keep your pets healthy

Health and diet intake remains to be an utmost priority for every pet parent, wanting to make sure their pets get premium care when it comes to what they consume on the daily. And with BGC’s Pet Huddle, fur parents are in good hands as the event will also be home to small businesses that offer the best and healthiest food and treats to keep your pets’ tummies energized, happy, and healthy.

Be sure to take a stop by merchants such as Pupsicles, Kyuubites, Moonies Town, and more, who will all be serving it up with the best options for your pets!

Good-to-have essentials for your fur babies

Every pet parent makes a commitment to providing for their animals’ needs and ensuring their happiness. Other necessities for our pets include collars, shampoos, and ointments in addition to gorgeous clothes and nutritious snacks. Be exposed to the assortment of retailers offered by the Pet Huddle, including brands like Moondison’s Collections, Kott’s, and Labsky Pet Supplies to keep you current on products that will enable you to provide your pets a better and happier living.

From 9:30 AM to 9:30 PM on each day of the Pet Huddle, admission will be free to allow all fur parents and children to enjoy a day full of pawsome moments. By following BGC on Facebook and Instagram, you can keep your eyes and paws open for further details.

Hey Pacey and BGC Pet Huddle are collaborating to bring you this event.

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP), the biggest automotive manufacturer in the Philippines, and PLDT, the largest fully integrated telco in the nation, recently announced a partnership that will help Toyota car owners and major fleet business operators reap the benefits of smart connected cars and intelligent platforms technology.

PLDT is launching TMP’s newest suite of linked services, the myTOYOTA Connect, through its B2B solutions arm PLDT Enterprise with smart IoT (Internet of Things) eSIM solutions powered by PLDT wireless unit Smart – the first of its kind solution to be launched in the Philippines.

“We at PLDT are proud to partner with Toyota Motor Philippines in advancing the value of technology for the benefit of Toyota customers. Through this milestone, we are powering the changing landscape of the automobile industry to be more ‘intelligent’, with newer and smarter solutions,” said PLDT and Smart President and CEO Alfredo S. Panlilio. 

“This reinforces how PLDT Group aims to enable digital adoption for Filipinos, which is key to inclusive nation-building. Through broader connectivity and technologies such as IoT offered by PLDT Enterprise, digital adoption can create opportunities across priority sectors of the economy, such as the transportation industry,” Panlilio added. 

TMP is able to harness the possibilities of a unified connectivity management platform thanks to reliable connectivity provided by PLDT’s Smart IoT Platform. Then, using this platform, customers can control connectivity and keep track of how many linked IoT devices are being used. This platform is supported by the nation’s fastest and best mobile network, according to Ookla®.

Toyota automobile owners and fleet company operators now have the chance to have more control over their vehicle for their safety thanks to TMP’s ground-breaking myTOYOTA Connect. Through the myTOYOTA App, it encourages the efficient use of Toyota automobiles by keeping track of their location, vehicle condition, and driver speed, among other things.

“With our unified vision and combined efforts, we were able to launch a service that is the first of its kind in the country. It has been some time since Toyota boldly announced its global direction to transform from being an automotive company to a mobility company. Our partnership with you brings us a step closer to this goal – by making CASE or Connected, Automated, Shared, and Electrified mobility a reality to more and more Filipinos,” said TMP President Atsuhiro Okamoto.  

TMP’s myTOYOTA Connect service is now available and ready for activation in the expanding lineup of select variants of Hilux, RAV4, Hiace, and Fortuner models. Activation can be done through TMP’s all-in-one customer mobile platform, the myTOYOTA app.  

PLDT Enterprise’s suite of IoT solutions brings in an array of ‘smart’ solutions in a unified platform that empowers consumers, enterprises, and industries under its Internet of Possibilities offering, including the Smart IoT eSIM.  

“As newer and more sophisticated technology becomes central to how businesses operate now, companies who are already tapping into the benefits of IoT have seen their revenues increasing and lowering their spend as they become more efficient and productive because of data-backed decisions and factual insights from real-time, downloadable reports,” said First Vice President and Head of Enterprise and International Business Groups of PLDT and Smart Mitch Locsin.  

In its role as the go-to digital enabler and service provider, PLDT continues to support the nation’s economic recovery by acting as the reliable adviser to large corporations and small-to-medium-sized businesses as they embark on their own digital transformation journeys.

This April, Toyota Motor Philippines is turning up the heat with some sizzling deals! Customers can take advantage of cheap monthly payments, trade-in incentives, and more when they buy a brand-new Toyota from any authorized dealer nationwide from April 7 to June 30. Each journey will be special thanks to the new vehicle for the summer.

Find the payment option for your budget

With friends or family, explore nearby towns in the trusted Vios. The Pay Low option allows for a down payment of PHP 115,350 on the 1.3 XE CVT model. Customers who choose this option can make down payments as little as 15%, receive free insurance for the first year, three years of free LTO registration, and an all-in cash out payment plan without a chattel mortgage.

The same variation is offered under the Pay Light option for a monthly payment of PHP 8,259 and provides clients cheap monthly plans with 50% downpayment and 60 months to pay.

Those looking to bring a bigger group of people will find the Avanza fit for their trip. Discover new vacations spots together with the 1.3 E CVT variant for a downpayment of PHP 150,600 under the Pay Low option or the 1.3 J M/T variant for a monthly payment of PHP 9,147 under the Pay Light option.

For those who are big on adventure, power through rough roads with the Fortuner! Get the 4×2 G A/T variant with a downpayment of only PHP 274,200 under the Pay Low option or the 4×2 G M/T variant for a monthly payment of PHP 18,736 under the Pay Light option.

Big savings also await those who will pay in cash! Get PHP 55,000 savings for the Fortuner 4×2 G Dsl A/T, PHP 30,000 for the Vios XLE CVT, or PHP 20,000 for the Innova E A/T and E M/T.

Ensure safe trips with a vehicle ready for the road

With more Filipinos excited to finally hit the road again, it’s important to consider the safety of one another. Prevent accidents by driving safely and keeping vehicles in tip-top condition for travel!

This April, all brand-new Corolla Altis, Raize, Veloz, Rush, Fortuner, and selected variants of the Vios, Avanza, Innova and Hilux purchased during the promo period are entitled to a free periodic maintenance service (PMS). Bringing in a car regularly for PMS makes sure that the vehicle is in excellent running condition and helps ensure better fuel economy.

New Toyota owners can bring in their vehicle for the free PMS up to the 20,000 KM check-up.

The hustle never stops for the Lite Ace, which is why Toyota is offering a fixed PMS package for every Lite Ace variant sold and released during the promo period. Lite Ace owners will only have to pay PHP 1,999 for every PMS until the 40,000 KM check-up.

Turn up the heat with trade-in rebates

Create more memories with a vehicle that has room for more! Wigo and Vios owners can get PHP 35,000 in rebate when they trade in their unit for a new Innova. Vios owners who want to upgrade their ride can also trade in their vehicle for the Raize G CVT. They will get a PHP 30,000 rebate.

Extraordinary journeys and PHP 20,000 in rebate also await Avanza owners who will trade in their vehicle for the Veloz.

The trade-in rebate can be used as cash discount for purchasing the new vehicle during the promo duration. It can also be used to buy accessories for your brand-new Toyota.

All Wigo, Veloz, and selected variants of the Vios, Corolla Altis, Innova, Hilux, Avanza, Rush, and Fortuner purchased during the promo period get a free comprehensive one-year insurance provided by Toyota Insure given that the unit is purchased from an authorized Toyota dealership nationwide.

New owners of the Vios G, E, and XLE variants also enjoy a warranty coverage of five years or 150,000 KM, whichever comes first.

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

Don’t miss out on these hot deals from Toyota and make it a summer to remember! Promo runs from April 7-30, 2023 only. Check out the full mechanics, offers and participating models here: https://toyota.com.ph/promos/FunInTheSun

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-164396 Series of 2023

For current information on products and services, dealer operations, announcements, and events, follow Toyota Motor Philippines’ official pages on Facebook and Instagram, toyota.com.ph, ToyotaMotorPH on Twitter, and Toyota PH on Viber.

Visit your preferred Toyota dealership for more details on a car you’re interested in. Visit toyota.com.ph/dealer to discover a local dealer.

For all your Toyota needs, from car selection to auto care, maintenance, and upgrades, download the myTOYOTA PH APP for Android and iOS.

Recently, Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) held its national dealership network’s annual Dealer Conference, which was followed by an awards ceremony to honor the top-performing dealers and dealer team members for 2022.

TMP emphasized the accomplishments of the dealership network throughout the ceremony, beginning with Toyota’s 21st consecutive Triple Crown for dominating sales of passenger cars, commercial vehicles, and overall sales. A historic 50% market share for the automotive sector was also recorded by Team Toyota Philippines, a first for the company since TMP began operations in the nation more than three decades ago.

“When it mattered the most, we came together as one team with one aim: to stand strong with each other so we could, most importantly, stand strong for our customers. As result, we were awarded with their trust and by their smiles,” TMP Chairman Alfed Ty said in his congratulatory message to the dealers. “As we celebrate our 35th year in the Philippines armed with the time-honored values of our shareholders, Toyota is more dedicated to doing what we do best—to continue producing happiness.”

Leading the list of awardees are the following dealerships that have received the major awards for the year:

President’s Award of Excellence

a.         Large Business Division – Toyota Pasig

b.         Medium Business Division – Toyota Marilao, Bulacan, Inc.

c.         Small Business Division – Toyota Tarlac City

President’s Customer Satisfaction Cup of Excellence

a.         Toyota Batangas City, Inc.

b.         Toyota Nueva Ecija, Inc.

c.         Toyota Mandaue North, Cebu

President’s Value Chain Award of Excellence

a.         Toyota Balintawak, Inc.

TMP also recognized the winners of the Special Awards, the Toyota Dealer Award of Excellence, and the Toyota Dealer Achievement Award for Overall Performance.

Atsuhiro Okamoto, president of TMP, also used his time on stage to honor and congratulate Team Toyota Philippines for not only their exceptional sales results but also for their dedication to provide customers the finest service and experience possible as the industry moves toward a higher caliber.

“2023 promises to be an even more amazing year,” said Okamoto. “I am confident that with the strongest product line-up in the country, the strongest dealers and, most importantly, the strongest team members and Toyota professionals ever, we will strive to be the best friend of every Filipino. Their trust is the strongest foundation for our future.”

An agreement will be made official by Fujifilm Philippines and Shinagawa Healthcare Solutions Corporation to offer cutting-edge technology to patients. Fujifilm Philippines is a major supplier of digital imaging and healthcare solutions.

According to Masahiro Uehara, president of Fujifilm Philippines, with this collaboration, the two businesses hope to leverage their own strengths to offer patients cutting-edge, high-quality healthcare solutions.

“We are thrilled to partner with Shinagawa Healthcare Solutions Corporation to provide better healthcare services to patients in the Philippines. Our advanced technology and expertise in the healthcare industry, combined with Shinagawa’s commitment to providing personalized care, will enable us to deliver innovative and high-quality healthcare solutions to patients in the Philippines,” he said.

Shinagawa Healthcare Solutions Corporation, a subsidiary of the country’s top Lasik provider, Shinagawa Lasik & Aesthetics Center Corporation, is set to open a diagnostic and preventive care center in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, next month. It will be the first Japanese standard health facility in the Philippines that focuses on preventive care.

Through the collaboration, Uehara said Fujifilm will bring its innovative equipment to Shinagawa Diagnostic and Preventive Care Center to offer quick and comfortable procedures to patients.

These include the Eluxeo Lite 6000, an endoscopy machine that features Multi-Light Technology to deliver high-quality imaging and superior visibility for enhanced patient comfort through flexible scope options.

Another key instrument is the Supria 128 Slice CT Scan Machine, which offers painless and low-dose scanning capabilities. It also produces high-speed and top-notch quality images with lower power consumption.

The Amulet Innovality is a mammogram machine designed with ergonomic armrests to ensure patient comfort and secure positioning, producing quick image intervals of just 15 seconds.

Fujifilm’s FDR Smart X x-ray machine offers advanced functionality and compatibility with any X-ray system, delivering high image quality for precise and accurate results.

Meanwhile, the Arietta Series is an ultrasound machine renowned for its broad diagnostic capabilities and top-notch imaging quality, producing reliable results that help with immediate critical surgical decisions.

“Fujifilm Philippines’ commitment to quality and innovation aligns with their vision to provide exceptional healthcare services. We are thrilled to partner with them to bring their state-of-the-art imaging technology to our patients in the Philippines. Together, we can make a significant impact on the healthcare industry, revolutionizing the way healthcare is delivered and experienced,” he said.

Prevention is key

Masako Uemori, Shinagawa President, said the partnership will enable them to provide patients with the best possible care.

“We believe that investing in preventive care is not only a wise decision but also a responsible one. By breaking the social stigma of reactive care and shifting our mindset towards proactive prevention, we can help Filipinos achieve better health outcomes and ultimately lead more fulfilling lives,” she said.

Aside from Japanese standard health checkups, Shinagawa Diagnostic and Preventive Care Center will offer brain exams (MRI/MRA), full body exams (CT scan), digestive exams (ultrasound/endoscopy), health exams for women (mammography/ultrasound), laboratory, and allergy tests.

Uemori said Shinagawa will partner with health maintenance organizations (HMOs) in the country to provide accessible, affordable, and comprehensive medical services to Filipinos.

She also said they plan to promote health and wellness through events and seminars to raise public awareness about their overall well-being.

“Our success in the field of eye care has enabled us to build a reputation as a leader in the industry. Our commitment to the latest technologies and Japanese standards for medical services has helped us to earn the trust of our patients, and we are proud to continue to deliver exceptional care that exceeds their expectations,” Uemori added.

The future of healthcare

Uemori said Shinagawa’s new Diagnostic & Preventive Care Center is committed to providing comprehensive and personalized healthcare plans that contribute to the early detection and prevention of disease.

She said the company’s comprehensive medical examination process is designed to identify potential health issues before they become major problems, allowing for proactive intervention and treatment.

Combined with Fujifilm’s cutting-edge and high-performance machines, Shinagawa’s state-of-the-art facility will enable doctors and health professionals to perform procedures quickly, comfortably, and stress-free for patients. Diagnosis and analysis will also have double reading by their partner Japanese doctors who have extensive experience in the field of preventive care.

Shinagawa will also implement an efficient and streamlined operation using the Japanese Health Checkup Information System. With same-day results, patients can receive timely and accurate diagnoses and treatment plans without the added stress of waiting.

Innovative imaging technology

Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. (now FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation) was established in 1934 to produce high-quality photographic films. Within the first decade of its establishment, the company expanded its production to include motion pictures and X-ray films, in addition to its original focus on photographic films.

As a sales subsidiary of Fujifilm’s regional headquarters in the Asia Pacific, Fujifilm Philippines was established in 2012. The company’s main goal is to supply the Philippine market with high-quality goods and services in industries like electronics, picture imaging, industrial products, graphic design, and medical systems. In 2019, the business established its first branch in Cebu to satisfy the rising demand for its products and guarantee a constant level of quality. Also, by giving additional regional support to consumers in the provinces of the Visayas and adjacent Mindanao, Fujifilm Philippines was able to better serve them.

Fujifilm Philippines installed the FDR Go PLUS, a digital mobile X-ray machine that aided in diagnosing COVID-19 patients, to support neighborhood hospitals during the pandemic’s peak in 2020. The FDR nano and the FUJIFILM COVID-19 Ag Test Kit, which are anticipated to aid medical professionals in diagnosing and screening for COVID-19, were both approved by the FDA for the company. In order to serve the front lines of medicine and advance human health, the company is dedicated to providing a range of goods and services.

As the company reaffirms its dedication to environmental stewardship, SM Supermalls and its corporate social responsibility arm SM Cares will join the rest of the world in honoring Earth Hour on March 25.

The theme of this year’s Earth Hour is “creating the Biggest Hour for Earth,” and individuals who wish to take part in the worldwide event are urged to do more than simply turn off their lights for one hour.

Ever since the inaugural Earth Hour event took place in the Philippines in 2008, SM Supermalls has backed the WWF and the organization. Customers, renters, and staff at SM malls across the country are once again urged to “Give an Hour for Earth” as SM Supermalls participates in the annual World Lights Turn Down on March 25 from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM.

This day also marks the start of the World Wildlife Fund’s Virtual Earth Hour Run, a self-paced run supported by SM Cares, to be held from March 25 to April 30, 2023. The run aligns with SM Supermalls’ bid to make “Earth Hour, Any Hour” as participants are encouraged to adopt an eco-friendly lifestyle by running and win prizes along the way. Joiners may register here and tag SM Cares and WWF as they post their stopovers at SM malls with hashtag #BiggestHourForEarth and #EarthHourVirtualRun.

Aside from these, SM Supermalls has been pushing to minimize its carbon footprint in support of the global green movement through various programs ranging from responsible energy consumption to investing in renewable energy.

For instance, more than 50 percent of the energy consumed by SM malls all over the country now come from renewable sources. In terms of solar energy usage, SM now has 12 malls equipped with energized solar panels, with SM Mall of Asia as the latest mall to receive a solar panel installation, which has a capacity of 2.003 MWp.

SM has also been recognized for exceeding compliance with RA7920 or the New Electrical Engineering Law, which regulates the practice, licensing, and registration of electrical engineers and electricians. This is proof that SM is operated and maintained only by highly qualified engineers.

SM Cares’ sustainability initiatives include the Trash-To-Cash Market and the Plastic Waste Collection program, which encourage responsible solid waste disposal among Filipinos; the annual Green Film Festival which promotes environmental awareness among students and the youth; and the International Coastal Cleanup which encourages stakeholders to do their part in keeping our seas and oceans clean.

The corporate social responsibility division of SM Supermalls, the largest mall chain in the nation and one of Southeast Asia’s top real estate developers, SM Prime Holdings, is called SM Cares. In addition to its activities on the environment, it is in charge of initiatives that support sustainability and the growth of the community, such as the Bike-Friendly SM initiative and programs for women and nursing mothers, people with disabilities, senior citizens, children, and youth.

Visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares for more information.

On February 27, 2023, SM Foundation Inc. (SMFI) sent aid to Turkey and Syria, two countries that had recently experienced earthquakes, through the Philippine Red Cross (PRC). 200 gasoline generators were donated to PRC by SMFI on behalf of Connie Angeles, Executive Director of SM Foundation Health and Medical Programs, to provide electricity to earthquake-devastated Turkey and Syria.

Moreover, SM’s social good branch contributed Php5 million to help earthquake victims.

The assistance follows an earthquake with a 7.8 magnitude that struck southeast Turkey and northwest Syria. A magnitude 6.3 earthquake that struck southern Turkiye shortly after the catastrophe caused further casualties and damage.

To know more about SM Foundation’s social good programs, visit www.sm-foundation.org or follow its social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube): @SMFoundationInc.

Do you know what it signifies that summer is just around the corner? Now is the ideal time to begin making arrangements for your upcoming family vacation! Your next road trip with the family is guaranteed to be more enjoyable thanks to Toyota Motor Philippines’ March promotions.

More fun with Toyota’s flexible options

With a brand-new Innova, create fresh memories with the family. With the Pay Low option, you may purchase the 2.8 J DSL M/T model for just PHP178,650 as a down payment. Customers have the choice to use this option to buy a new car with as little as a 15% down payment, free insurance for the first year, free LTO registration for three years, and no chattel mortgage at 60 months to pay via all-in cash out.

Other models available under the Pay Low option are the Wigo 1.0 G AT at PHP101,100 downpayment, the Rush 1.5 GR-S A/T at PHP176,400, the Fortuner 4×2 G A/T at PHP274,200 and more! With Toyota, there’s sure to be a model that fits your fam.

With the Avanza, everyone can join in the fun! You can get the 1.3 J M/T variant for a monthly payment of PHP9,147 under the Pay Light option. Through this option, customers can enjoy low monthly plans with 50% downpayment at 60 months to pay.

For the families who find fun in adventure, the Hilux 4×2 J M/T is available for PHP10,662 per month under the Pay Light option, while those running a business may find the Hiace Commuter Deluxe M/T or Lite Ace 1.5 Pickup M/T the fun choice for their venture. These vehicles are available under the Pay Light option for PHP18,930 and PHP6,865 monthly, respectively.

Those who pay in cash also get a discount for every purchase of a brand-new Toyota! Save PHP50,000 for the Corolla Altis V HV and V variants under the Cash Savings option, up to PHP30,000 for the Vios, depending on the variant, and PHP20,000 for the Veloz G CVT.

Keep safe and drive on!

Ensure safe drives by regularly bringing in your vehicle for maintenance! Every purchase of a brand-new Corolla Altis, Raize, Veloz, Rush, Fortuner, and selected variants of the Vios, Avanza, Innova and Hilux are entitled to a FREE Basic Periodic Maintenance Service (PMS) during the promo period, given that they are purchased from an authorized Toyota Dealer nationwide.

Customers may avail of the free PMS package up to the 20,000KM check-up within 18 months from the release date of the vehicle.

New owners of the Lite Ace are also in for a fun treat! All variants of the Lite Ace sold and released within the promo period quality for a fixed 1,000KM to 40,00KM PMS. Customers will only need to pay PHP1,999 (VAT inclusive) per PMS until the 40,000KM check-up. This fixed PMS promo can be availed within 24 months from the release of the vehicle.

Enjoy rebates, insurance and warranty

Level up the fun when you upgrade your Toyota this month! Customers who trade in their Wigo for a Vios during the promo period will get PHP35,000 in rebate, while Vios owners who upgrade to the Raize G CVT will receive a PHP30,000 rebate. Avanza owners who will trade in their unit for a Veloz also get a PHP20,000 rebate.

The trade-in rebate can be used as cash discount or to buy accessories when you purchase the participating model during the promo duration.

Additionally, all brand-new Wigo, Veloz, and selected models of the Vios, Corolla Altis, Innova, Hilux, Avanza, Rush, and Fortuner come with a FREE one-year insurance provided by Toyota Insure. The one-year comprehensive insurance covers 24/7 personal accident, passenger auto personal accident, three-year CPTL, own damage (OD), loss/theft, excess bodily injury (EBI), property damage (PD), acts of nature (AON), and includes emergency roadside assistance.

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

The fun never ends with Toyota! Promo runs from March 11-31, 2023 only. Check out the full mechanics, offers and participating models here: https://toyota.com.ph/promos/StartTheFun

DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-162931 Series of 2023

For current information on goods and services, dealer operations, announcements, and events, follow Toyota Motor Philippines’ official pages on   Facebook and Instagram, toyota.com.ph, ToyotaMotorPH on Twitter, and Toyota PH on Viber.

Visit your preferred Toyota dealership for more details on a car you’re interested in. Visit Toyota.com.ph/dealer to discover a local dealer.

For all your Toyota needs, from car selection to auto care, maintenance, and upgrades, download the myTOYOTA PH APP for Android and iOS.