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Food, Lifestyle

McDonald’s and VYBE by BPI Use a Delightful “Holiday Treats” Promotion to Spread Holiday Joy

McDonald’s Philippines and VYBE by BPI are collaborating this holiday season to introduce the “Holiday Treats” promotion, which will make festivities even more delightful. Customers nationwide can get a complimentary New Tiramisu or New Hazelnut McFlurry with every qualified transaction made through the VYBE app between December 11 and December 31, 2024. Fans of McDonald’s have the ideal excuse to indulge themselves and take full advantage of the celebrations this season thanks to this fantastic promotion.

Using the ease of smartphones, VYBE, which is quickly becoming the preferred digital payment platform among Filipinos, streamlines the way consumers purchase, eat, and make payments. Users can use the VYBE e-wallet to pay cashless at any QR Ph retailer, take advantage of special offers like Holiday Treats, and get rewards for each purchase. For people who want to simplify their holiday eating and shopping, it’s the ideal partner.

Customers who make a single-receipt purchase of at least PHP 300 at any McDonald’s store nationwide, whether for dine-in, take-out, or drive-thru, are eligible to claim their free McFlurry. To qualify, they simply need to pay using the VYBE app. Once the transaction is completed, customers can head to the cashier or take-out counter and claim their New Tiramisu McFlurry or New Hazelnut McFlurry, just by presenting proof of their VYBE transaction.

Each VYBE-registered mobile number is eligible to claim one free McFlurry regardless of multiple transactions in a day, the minimum single-receipt transaction requirement of PHP 300 must be met. Making it easy to enjoy a daily holiday treat during the promo period. Customers are encouraged to grab their McFlurries right after completing their qualifying purchase. Whether you’re craving the rich flavor of tiramisu or the nutty goodness of hazelnut, McDonald’s has you covered with these delicious, limited-time flavors.

“We are thrilled to partner with McDonald’s to encourage Filipinos to embrace a more rewarding lifestyle by transitioning to digital platforms for their financial transactions. This collaboration is an easy and fun way for consumers to incorporate VYBE in their holiday spending while enjoying their favorite McFlurries this holiday season,” said Eric Faustino, Head of Digital Partnerships and Ecosystems at BPI.

There’s no better way to treat yourself or your loved ones this Christmas than with McDonald’s and BPI VYBE’s Holiday Treats promo, which runs through the end of December and offers a lovely way to celebrate the season with the convenience of mobile payments and a free McFlurry on the line.

Get the BPI VYBE app now from the Apple Store or Google Play to take advantage of this exclusive feature and other deals.

Lifestyle, News

The 2nd Premier Business and Achiever Awards in Southeast Asia 2024

With a stellar roster of prominent individuals and companies, the 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Awards 2024 press conference just wrapped off with tremendous success. The event, which took place at Winford Resort and Casino Manila Ballroom Halls 1-3 on December 8, 2024, set the tone for the highly anticipated awards ceremony that will also be held there on the same day.

The excellence and accomplishments of Southeast Asia’s top professionals and companies were showcased at this esteemed event. Lae Mañego, known as Asia’s Queen of Fire, Derwen Lipardo of Gown and Events Management by Touting, and a representative from JP’s Catering Services were among the notable guests. MJ-AM Trading, led by Jaclyn Kate Tolete; Kylledmed Philippines, represented by Dr. Patrick Saburit; Viomix Philippines, led by Fatima Gallos; Genuine Diamonds PH, led by Mariel Nicole Santiago; and Better Boneless, led by Cheska Costes, were among the prestigious companies that had strong representation. The appearance of Atty. added considerably more importance to the occasion. The Premier Achiever Inspiring Filipina Lawyer is Persida V. Rueda-Acosta.  

The press conference also highlighted the invaluable support of this year’s sponsors, who have helped bring this momentous event to life. Sponsors included *JP Catering Services*(Golden Awardee) recognized as the Premier Business Remarkable Events Catering Services; *Genuine Diamonds PH*, recognized as the Premier Business Outstanding Natural Diamond Jewelry Provider*Sheanne Roll Up Door Construction Services* (Golden Awardee), acknowledged as the Premier Business Excellent Roll-Up Door Fabrication Company*Salvacion Paparon* (Golden Achiever), honored as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Roll-Up Door Business Owner*Intele Builders and Development Corporation*, distinguished as the Premier Business Outstanding Telecommunication Company; *Lucky GHL Advertising* (Golden Awardee), awarded as the Premier Business Marketing Service of the Year*JFBV* (Golden Awardee), celebrated for being the Premier Business Remarkable Advertising of the Year;  *NWOW International Trading Corp.*, hailed as the Premier Business Outstanding No.1 Electric Vehicle/E-bike Brand*Capitol Medical Center Inc.*, acknowledged as the Premier Outstanding Healthcare Provider*Viomix Philippines*, recognized for its Premier Korean Coffee Supplies. And *Kylledmed Philippines*, recognized for being the Premier Business Trusted Healthcare Products Supplier.

The event celebrated an impressive selection of remarkable achievers and businesses across various categories. Among the distinguished award recipients are: Salvacion Paparon (Golden Achiever), Wej Cudiamat (Golden Achiever), Carlo Lorenzo, Jamin Lim (Golden Achiever), Braggy Braganza (Golden Achiever), Lae Manego (Golden Achiever), Dennis Antennor Jr. (Golden Achiever), Annabelle Surara (Golden Achiever), Shirley B. Belangel CPA, MBA (Golden Achiever), D. Edgard A. Cabangon, Conrado Cagas Tacgos Jr. (Golden Achiever), Bon Jheo Exconde (Golden Achiever), Janice Delima, Dr. Elva Evasco-Auza, DJ Mama Colleen, DJ Kuya Machete, Edwin Lisa, Freddie Aguilar, Richard James B. Merk, Conelen Cariño, Ravve Jay Prevendido (Golden Achiever) , Mherie Vic Palomo Prevendido (Golden Achiever), Jos Garcia , Ira Patricia Malaluan , Julia Mendoza , Usec. Robert Rivera, Nerlisa Elyza Francisco Rivera, Jeff Madarang , Rogelio Constantino Medina ,Audrey Gorriceta (Golden Achiever) ,Hagibis , Jane Darren Genobisa ,Cindy Madduma (Golden Achiever) , Marc Logan, Keyrol Cabuso (Golden Achiever), Dr. Patrick Saburit, Catherine Veluz-Zeta, Hon. Saleha Pangarungan Sacar, Earlo Bringas, Gilbert de los Santos, Jigo Postolero, William Jones , Angelo Estera, Hazel May E. Baliguian, LPT, MAED CULED, Miles Ocampo, Vhong Navarro, Jhong Hilario, General Rhodel Orden Sermonia, Isko Moreno, Ambet R. Nabus, Dominic Almelor, Gretchen Fullido, Dr. Jesus Recasata, Jr., M.D. FPAPRAS, Andrew de Real, MC & Lassy, Michael Pangilinan, Bugoy Drilon, Daryl Ong, Jona , Atasha Muhlach, Andres Muhlach, Niño Myrrh C. Tarinay a.k.a NMTV, Ishaku Ishaya Monday aka Kuya Isaac Sabaw, Hon. Datu Kasan A. Karon Jr., Chief Persida V. Rueda-Acosta (Golden Achiever), Alexander John Lainez Fong, Marian Rivera, Dr. Sheilah A. Recasata, MD, Jomerle Evardone Matutino, Jeffrey Dy, Charlomagne Arceta & Senator Christopher Bong Go. NWOW International Trading Corp., JP Catering Services (Golden Awardee), Sheanne Roll Up Door Construction Services (Golden Awardee), Intele Builders and Development Corporation, Lucky GHL Advertising (Golden Awardee), JFBV (Golden Awardee),  Matty’s Themed Events, Sapporo Products Inc, 97.9 Home Radio(Golden Awardee), Aliw Channel 23(Golden Awardee), DWIZ-AM(Golden Awardee), Lagniappe Printshop(Golden Awardee), Eyeleen Hair and Make up by: Aileen Sebua(Golden Awardee), Gown and Events Management by Touting(Golden Awardee), Media House Express(Golden Awardee), Jam Lim Enterprises(Golden Awardee), Cave Beach Resort(Golden Awardee), Alegre de Pilipinas, The Metropolista (Golden Awardee), Rise and Shine Pilipinas(Golden Awardee), Light TV(Golden Awardee), RCP Ritmo Tambore, Win Radio, Bhylinn’s Modern Fashion, Edwin Lisa Brows and Aesthetics, Venice Handicrafts Wooden Kiddie Stools and Furniture, Links Digital (Golden Awardee), Through The Glass Creatives (Golden Awardee), Densol’s Catering, Kylledmed Philippines, Joyice Philippines, DWAN 1206 AM, Top 5 Mga Kwentong Marc Logan, Genuine Diamonds PH, SCPM Trading, Kherk Roldan Whitelabel SEO Solutions, MJ-AM TRADING, Better Boneless, Finca Engineering Services, The Brewed Buddies coffee & Tea Creations, Altech Autogate Int. Philippines Inc., SMRD Credit Collection Services, Faces and Curves, G-Film Rental, Capitol Medical Center Inc, Phisavong World Travel and Tours, Viomix Philippines, Philippines Graphic & BusinessMirror.

The press conference garnered coverage from various media partners, including prominent publications and networks such as Malaya Business Insight, Business Mirror, The Metropolista, Business World, Philippines Graphic, Pilipino Mirror, Consumer Asia Magazine, The Market Monitor, Cook Magazine, Amazing Manila Journal, Hataw!, Aliw Channel 23, DWIZ-AM, 97.9 Home Radio, Light TV, Light TV Radio, Balitang A2Z, Zoe TV, People Journal, Daily Tribune, Media House Express, Pinoy Aksyon, and Tech & Lifestyle Journal, as well as The Global Filipino Magazine. Journalists and reporters were enthusiastic about capturing every detail, ensuring that audiences stayed well-informed about the key announcements and insights shared during the event. This collaboration with such a wide range of media outlets not only expanded the reach of the messages but also highlighted the organizers’ dedication to transparency and community engagement.

By highlighting the most inspirational and prosperous leaders and businesses in the country, the 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Awards 2024 honored this year’s dedication to excellence, hard work, and innovation. In keeping with its tradition of honoring the nation’s top achievers, the event made a huge impression and is set to expand in future editions.

Lifestyle, News

Filipino artistry and cultural heritage are honored by BPI’s ‘In the Name of Progress’ exhibit

In photo (L-R): Kenneth Esguerra, Curator; Carmina Marquez, BPI Foundation Executive Director;TG Limcaoco, BPI President and CEO; Shiela Ramos, BPI Foundation Trustee; Aprille Tijam, Ayala Museum Associate Director and Head of Exhibitions and Collections; andRonald Hilaria, Ayala Alabang Camera Club President.

Through its social development arm, the BPI Foundation (BPIF), and in collaboration with the Ayala Museum, the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) proudly opened In the Name of Progress: Selections from the BPI Art Collection, an exhibition that is currently on display at the Ayala Museum, to celebrate Filipino artistry and heritage.

Through an inspirational fusion of ancient artwork and modern photography, the show provides visitors with a unique opportunity to understand the growth of Philippine civilization, in line with BPIF’s Kasama Lahat sa Pag-unlad agenda.

In the Name of Progress celebrates both Filipino artistry and BPI’s long-standing commitment to preserving our nation’s cultural legacy—a dedication that has grown over our 173-year journey. The BPI Art Collection embodies this commitment, showcasing the creativity, spirit, and resilience of Filipino communities through artworks that capture pivotal moments in our shared history and inspire us to envision the future,” said TG Limcaoco, BPI President and CEO.

In the Name of Progress showcases masterpieces by renowned Filipino visual artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, including National Artists Juan Luna, Federico Aguilar Alcuaz, Jose Joya, Antonio Austria, Manuel Baldemor, and more. These artworks, depicting iconic events, landscapes, and traditions offer a visual journey through Philippine history, capturing defining moments and values that have shaped the nation’s identity.

In collaboration with the Ayala Alabang Camera Club, the exhibit also features new photographic interpretations that resonate with the historical artworks. Members of the Camera Club responded to the challenge of creating photographic narratives that dialogue with the paintings, offering viewers a side-by-side perspective on the continuity and transformation of Filipino life. Through this creative interplay, audiences can reflect on the nation’s journey and envision a hopeful future.

In the Name of Progress features National Artists Juan Luna, Federico Aguilar Alcuaz,Jose Joya, Antonio Austria, and Manuel Baldemor.

Through its Arts Management Program, BPIF and the Ayala Museum are dedicated to fostering cultural preservation and assisting Filipino artists. In The Name of Progress is a prime example of BPIF’s commitment to establishing venues that celebrate the tenacity, artistry, and tales of Filipino communities while also preserving the bayanihan spirit via artistic expression.

Curated by Kenneth Esguerra, In the Name of Progress will be on view from November 20, 2024, to January 12, 2025, in the Ayala Museum’s 2F Gallery, which is reachable by the Greenbelt Walkway. All visitors are admitted free of charge.

Go to https://www.facebook.com/BPIFoundation for additional details.

Food, Lifestyle

In the Philippines, the ready-to-drink alcoholic cocktail Absolut Vodka & SPRITE makes an exciting debut

No strategy? No worries, as Absolut Vodka & SPRITE takes over the Philippines, hosting the ultimate unplanned bash to celebrate the launch of the nation’s newest alcoholic ready-to-drink (ARTD) beverage.

This season, Absolut Vodka & SPRITE is poised to spark impromptu get-togethers with friends without the need for formal invitations, dress codes, or wristbands, emphasizing that the pre-mixed alcoholic drink is the ideal combination for life’s most memorable unplanned moments.

Bringing together two iconic brands that have grown to have a global footprint, the new pre-mixed alcoholic cocktail is made with the perfect mix of Absolut Vodka’s full-bodied, smooth character with the highly refreshing lemon and lime flavour of SPRITE. Truly, the perfect blend of premium quality and refreshing taste has arrived.

Mark Dee, Senior Director of Frontline Marketing at the Coca-Cola Company for ASP East Region shares, “In today’s world where planning dominates, Absolut Vodka & SPRITE encourages people to relish life’s unplanned moments. We’re thrilled to bring the ‘Planned for the Unplanned’ campaign to life, offering our adult consumers a unique and interactive experience. We hope that our consumers across the Philippines will be inspired to embrace the unexpected and spark spontaneous gatherings with friends throughout the season and beyond.”

This innovative new beverage brings together the smooth sophistication of Absolut Vodka with the refreshing crisp, lemon-lime zest of SPRITE. Conveniently pre-mixed and packaged in a sleek 320mL can with a 7% ABV, it is designed for those spontaneous moments and social gatherings, ensuring you’re always ready to enjoy a perfectly balanced alcoholic cocktail.

Debasree Dasgupta, VP Global Marketing, Absolut Vodka added, “We’re delighted to see the next iteration of the Absolut Vodka & SPRITE journey, with the launch of this campaign platform. Absolut Vodka has always been the key player for the perfect mix in any social occasion, so inviting consumers to try Absolute Vodka & Sprite while enjoying their spontaneous unplanned hangouts with friends couldn’t be truer to our brand.”

Discover the Perfect Mix

The Absolut Vodka & SPRITE Ready-To-Drink Alcoholic Cocktail is available in select stores in Metro Manila and will soon roll out to other areas nationwide Clear responsibility symbols on the cans indicate that the drink is to be enjoyed only by consumers of legal purchasing age. Both The Coca-Cola Company and Pernod Ricard are committed to adhering to responsible marketing practices.

For just PHP 55 SRP at supermarkets and PHP 65 SRP at convenience stores, the Absolut Vodka & SPRITE Ready-To-Drink Alcoholic Cocktail provides the ideal balance of luxury taste and convenience, whether you’re organizing a party or embracing an unforeseen moment. The official Coca-Cola Flagship Store on Lazada, located at https://s.lazada.com.ph/a.jbn, also sells it.

To learn more about our responsible marketing strategies and the most recent news about Absolut Vodka & SPRITE, visit www.coca-cola.com/ph or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Drink responsibly at all times.

Lifestyle, News

To improve PH’s worldwide connectivity, Eastern Communications collaborates with AMS-IX, HGC Global Communications, and STT GDC Philippines

With a shared vision of enhancing global connectivity for Philippine businesses, telecommunications and ICT company Eastern Communications, Amsterdam Internet Exchange (AMS-IX), HGC Global Communications, and ST Telemedia Global Data Centres Philippines (STT GDC Philippines) held an official launch event and contract signing ceremony on December 2, 2024, at New World Hotel Makati.

Along with international firms HGC and STT GDC Philippines, Eastern Communications is the first Philippine telecom carrier to collaborate with AMS-IX, one of the biggest peering hubs in the world. The collaboration intends to give Philippine businesses better connectivity and increased access to international Internet Protocol (IP) traffic by establishing quicker and more secure connections to global data networks.

[From L to R:] Eastern Communications Co-Coordinators Jaeson Evangelista and Atty. Aileen Regio, AMS-IX International Partnership Director Onno Bos, and HGC Philippines President Michael De Castro.

Food, Lifestyle

The Jollibee Group Foundation Enhances Farmers’ Agri-Technological Proficiency

Over 18 participants from different FEP farmer groups and local implementing partners gathered to learn about agri-extension approaches and methods at the pioneering Agri-Tech Facilitator Training Program of the Jollibee Group Foundation.
 

The inaugural round of training for the Agri-Tech Facilitator (ATF) Program was successfully held in Pasig City from October 14–16 by the Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF), the social development division of the Jollibee Group. As part of JGF’s effort to develop smallholder farmers into agri-tech facilitators who will find, test, and promote innovations that will increase the productivity, profitability, and sustainability of their agro-enterprises, this training covered the first of three program modules.

JGF offers farmer groups and local implementing partners of its Farmer Entrepreneurship Program (FEP) ongoing capacity-building training, which includes the ATF Program. Ayat ti Pasuquin Farmers and Irrigators Association, Kalasag Multipurpose Cooperative, Lamac Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Lourdes Multi-Purpose Cooperative, Marcos Village Palayan City Farmers Agri-Farm Corporation, Onion and Vegetables Producers Cooperative, Pagbiagan Multipurpose Cooperative, Sacred Heart Savings Cooperative, Tucop Farmers Association, Ungab Farmers Association, and Ahon sa Hirap, Inc. (ASHI) were among the first group of ATF participants.

“The Agri-Tech Facilitator Program enables JGF to further support the growth of our farmers. By fostering collaboration and encouraging openness to innovative changes, we hope our farmers could thrive better as agro-entrepreneurs and continue to achieve sustainability and success in the long-term,” JGF President Gisela Tiongson said.

The ATF participants engaged in activities and workshops to build on their outputs and allow them to have a meaningful learning experience.
 

For Jude Tria, Board of Director of the Lourdes Multi-Purpose Cooperative, one of FEP’s local implementing partners, who is also an ATF Farmer Adviser, the entire module would also be beneficial in building their confidence and establishing their quality as FEP farmers.

Naniniwala ako na ang programa ng ATF ay magkakaroon ng magandang epekto sa mga magsasaka dahil ang agritech ay hindi lamang pamilyar sa mga magsasaka kundi nakatutok din sa bawat isa sa kanila. Dahil napaka-accessible rin nila, hindi na magdadalawang isip ang mga magsasaka tungkol sa pagkonsulta sa kanila, at sa akin, ito ay magreresulta sa na ang programa ay maging isang milestone, isa pang trademark ng FEP, (I believe that the ATF program would have a good impact on the farmers because the agritech is not only familiar with the farmers but is also focused on each one of them. Since they are also very accessible, the farmers won’t have second thoughts about consulting them, and to me, this would eventually result in the program becoming a milestone, another trademark of FEP)” he said.

JGF, through FEP, provides smallholder farmers with training and resources to help sharpen their leadership and technical skills, enabling them to supply quality vegetables to institutional markets such as Jollibee Group. To date, 19 FEP farmer groups regularly deliver their crops to the Company.

Farming Innovations

Following the completion of the first module, the participants will proceed to the next two modules which will be conducted in 2025. Part of the two other modules is the practicum participation of the attendees.

The next training session will be in January 2025 and will be facilitated by the Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan.

For Lamac Multipurpose Cooperative Association Cluster Leader Jefrey Velasquez, the ATF program helps enhance their competency as farmers. As a leader, he also learned how to communicate effectively, which, according to him, is essential in building relationships with his fellow farmers.

“Mahalaga po itong training na ito dahil dito po nagmumula ang mga bagong kaalaman sa teknolohiya, at iba pa pong kasanayan, na siya ko rin pong ituturo sa aking mga kapwa magsasaka.” (This training is important because it gives us new knowledge on technology, as well as other practices, which I will also be able to teach and share with my fellow farmers) he said.

Meanwhile, Larena Nicolas, President of the Marcos Village Palayan City Farmers Agri-Farm Corporation, appreciates how the training encourages leaders like her to help their fellow farmers succeed.

“Kailangan ko pong maituro sa aming members ang kahalagahan ng ganitong trainings upang ma-adopt din po nila ‘yong practices at patuloy na makapag supply sa mga institutional market. Importante po talaga na magpaliwanag sa mga farmer at pakinggan ang needs nila,” (I need to teach our members the importance of such trainings so they can also adopt the practices and be able to continuously supply to institutional markets. It is important that we get to discuss with them and listen to their needs) she added.

JGF is eager to see how the new Agri-Tech Facilitators will apply these agri-extension strategies and techniques in their local farming communities, thereby improving the standard of living for the nation’s smallholder farmers.

Lifestyle, News

Eastern collaborates with NGOs to promote educational inclusion and improve Batangas’ mangrove habitats

[From L to R] TeamAsia Marketing Manager Erika de Leon, Eastern Communications Co-Coordinators Jaeson Evangelista and Atty. Aileen Regio, and TeamAsia Associate Director Tins Flores, presenting the “Dream Kits” donated to the My Dream In A Shoebox Program.

Eastern Communications, the leading telecommunications provider in the Philippines, is advancing sustainability through a number of Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) projects. Eastern Communications actively works to make a good impact that complies with international standards and promotes the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023–2028, from protecting coastal environments to improving impoverished areas.

Environmental Initiatives: Nurturing Nature for Future Generations

To support the typhoon-prone country, Eastern continues its environmental stewardship through various initiatives. Building on its previous partnerships, including tree-planting activities with the Tuguegarao One Million Trees Movement in collaboration with former team Eastern Communications Perlas Spikers, the company continues to champion ecological conservation this year with coastal rehabilitation initiatives with Project Pristine for Love Boracay 2024 and Metro Divers’ Code Blue 2024 underwater clean-up drive.

One of its upcoming initiatives is the mangrove planting initiative, to be conducted in December in partnership with the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI) One To Tree program. Mangroves, which protect coastlines from erosion, serve as nurseries for marine life, and play an essential role in carbon sequestration, are critical to combating climate change. To begin its long-term mangrove reforestation initiatives, Eastern kicks this off by planting 1,000 mangroves in Brgy. Lumaniag, Municipality of Lian, Batangas. Through this, Eastern will contribute to enhancing and nurturing these vital ecosystems and mitigating the impact of climate-related issues in vulnerable coastal areas.

Photo of mangrove-planting site in Lian, Batangas

Social Initiatives: Empowering the Next Generation

Eastern Communications’ has long believed in the importance of supporting the next generation and furthering the quality of their education especially in underserved communities. Recently, Eastern partnered with the “My Dream in a Shoebox” (MDIAS) campaign to help bridge the educational gap faced by underprivileged children. With the help of Eastern employee volunteers, this initiative focused on providing children with essential learning materials and opportunities for growth.

​​”Thank you to the generous hearts of our Eastern Communications partners. You inspire us by helping us make bigger dreams come true,” said Bea Lim, CEO and President of TeamAsia.

The partnership with MDIAS began in 2023, and continued this year with 300 Dream Kits gifted to beneficiaries of the Payatas Orione Foundation Inc. in Quezon City. Each kit contained school supplies, supporting these children in their academic journey and empowering them with resources to pursue their dreams. Now in its 16th year, MDIAS has impacted countless young lives by offering educational materials, funding assistance, and access to technology, aligning with Eastern Communications’ advocacy for inclusive and equitable quality education.

Eastern Communications held its My Dream in a Shoebox gift-giving session with beneficiaries of the Payatas Orione Foundation Inc. in Quezon City.

According to the World Bank, nine out of ten Filipino children at age 10 are unable to read and comprehend a basic, age-appropriate text. Furthermore, Filipino students ranked among the lowest globally in mathematics, reading, and science, as shown by the 2022 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). The Philippines placed 77th out of 81 countries, with performance falling below the global average across all subjects.

“By providing these Dream Kits, we’re helping break down the barriers of limited resources, opening doors for children to continue their educational journey and reach for their dreams,” said Jed Estanislao, Eastern Communications Head of Marketing and Customer Experience.

Discover fundraising and outreach programs to help make a brighter reality for more and more learners in the Philippines at www.shoeboxcampaign.teamasia.com.

In addition to its efforts to cultivate the talent of the Filipino youth, Eastern also launched a digital art contest during October to November. The competition, organized in partnership with Wacom Philippines, invited young artists and creatives from Baguio City and the Cordillera region to showcase their unique skills and creativity. With the theme ‘Philippines: A Connected Digital Nation,’ the contest challenged participants to express the connectedness of Filipinos in the modern age through the use of digital art.

“We celebrate these talented artists and their inspiring work. It’s our hope that these awards not only recognize their exceptional creativity but also fuel their passion for years to come,” shared Estanislao.

Governance Initiatives: Promoting Transparency and Ethical Standards

Good governance lies at the core of Eastern Communications’ operational practices. The company is committed to maintaining high standards of transparency, accountability, and ethical practices, which are essential for building trust with customers and partners, and ensuring long-term sustainability.

The company takes pride in being the first telecommunications company to be ISO certified. It recently renewed its ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 27001:2013 certifications, affirming its dedication to maintaining high standards of service excellence and best industry-standard practices. These certifications highlight Eastern’s top-tier service solutions for clients, setting the benchmark for quality and excellence in the telco industry.

Professional growth and employee well-being are given equal importance by Eastern Communications, which funds training initiatives that give staff members the know-how to further the business’s sustainability goals. Eastern Communications develops a workforce that not only propels economic success but also supports moral behavior by fostering a culture of integrity and learning.

Eastern Communications is a perfect example of how corporate responsibility and sustainability can coexist with business expansion as the organization develops further in the digital era. By doing this, they not only advance their goal but also help create a more inclusive and sustainable future for the Philippines and establish a model for other businesses to follow. Eastern can be found at www.eastern.com.ph.

Lifestyle, News

La Mesa Ecopark receives #GreenLove as Taiwan Excellence partners with Manila Water Foundation

Taiwan Excellence is showing #GreenLove by partnering with Manila Water Foundation (MWF) to boost the promotion of La Mesa Ecopark (LME), the ‘last ecological frontier’ of Metro Manila.

As part of its efforts on environmental sustainability, Taiwan Excellence will engage in information, education, and communication support to Manila Water Foundation for the promotion of the 33 -hectare LME Park in Greater Lagro, Quezon City, which combines conservation and tourism.

Taiwan Excellence noted that LME is part of the La Mesa Watershed which is an important water source for Metro Manila and the Greater Manila Area.

“The vital aspect of our #GreenLove campaign is our sincere love for the environment by preserving and protecting our natural resources. This is our action in support of a healthier environment. We are giving future generations a greener and healthier Earth,” says Dir. Alex Lai of Taiwan Trade Center, Manila.

Dir. Lai also said that their #GreenLove campaign with MWF underscores their appreciation for LME’s rich biodiversity.

The LME is where flora, fauna, and communities interact in ecological harmony.

“La Mesa Ecopark is considered one of the last lungs of Metro Manila because of its lush green forest that helps produce oxygen and aid in improving the city’s air quality, as well as preserve our water source. We are happy to work with Taiwan Excellence through their #GreenLove campaign. We hope that this will inspire others to do their part to help the environment,” the MWF said.

For the #GreenLove campaign, Taiwan Excellence will be collaborating with actress, singer, and social media influencer Kim Molina.

Kim will feature the LME in her upcoming vlog.

Taiwan Excellence has been committed to promoting green sustainability. Recently they held the “Go Green with Taiwan” project resulting in 17 semifinalists from 12 countries, including the Philippines. This global project encourages individuals, social institutions, and non-profit governmental organizations to submit ideas for a better world using Taiwanese green products and solutions.

The top three winners will be awarded a total of USD 20,000, with the results being announced on December 11, 2024.

To know more about #GreenLove campaign follow the Taiwan Excellence’s social media accounts.


Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanExcellence.ph/ and
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taiwanexcellence_ph/?hl=en.

Lifestyle, Tech

Express your affection! Buzz is a social media app craze that encourages voice communication between users

Ditch the typing and deepen your relationship with the app that’s risen to #1 on combined Apple App Store and Google Play Store downloads!

We have seen firsthand how rapidly the everyday message landscape has changed over the past ten years. With convenience at its highest level, messaging apps have become more popular, enabling everyone to send texts instantly.

However, there are drawbacks to these methods of communication as well. In addition to the work required to manually text, instant messaging may weaken our bonds with superficial interactions. Furthermore, although fast delight is convenient, the inability to engage in deeper conversation can weaken our relationships with others. Buzz, a social app, seeks to address this by leading the way in voice-powered communication. 

Illustrating how voice can create a world of difference in deepening relationships would be the irresistible tandem of Barbie Forteza and David Licauco, who features in buz’s latest TVC! Beyond showcasing their undeniable chemistry, the full clip also highlights buz’s main goal: to connect through voice, and to let users feel that they are always with their loved ones.

Recognizing the power of our natural voice, buz is the social app that improves the ways people connect with one another. Going beyond merely text, buz empowers users to converse with their easy-to-use Push-to-Talk (PTT) feature, allowing users to quickly send voice notes that play instantaneously for the receiver.

Flexibility is another core value of buz, allowing users to multitask in between apps and even transcribing with its Voice to Text feature to improve the ways we connect everyday. Aiming to provide more fulfilling exchanges that no other messaging platforms can offer, buz is also home to a number of fun features such as Voicemojis, voice filters, and virtual gifts.

In the end, all of these features inside the app are a part of Buzz’s endeavors to not only give each discussion a distinctive, individualized taste, but also to exemplify the app’s primary value of facilitating instantaneous, enhanced contact with loved ones—all powered by everyone’s voice.

Make a verbal connection with Buzz and don’t forget to watch its most recent TVC featuring Barbie Forteza and David Licauco! Buzz is currently the most downloaded social app on both the  Apple and Android downloads, platforms combined. It is also free, making it simple for anybody to use speech to instantly strengthen and expand their relationships.

Lifestyle, News

This November, keep in mind these privacy reminders

BPI Branch Facade

Even though Halloween has passed, you should continue to be alert for “spooky” situations since scammers are continuously looking for new ways to trick and exploit potential victims.

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is reminding its esteemed customers to always be on the lookout for cybercrimes and to maintain good hygiene this November.

“The safety of our clients is our priority, that’s why BPI is doing its best to enhance its online security measures continuously. At the same time, we encourage our clients to ‘Maging Listo, Huwag Magpaloko’ because cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. With cybersecurity hygiene practices, people can avoid falling victim to cyber crimes such as hacking, phishing, and identity theft,” said Jonathan Paz, BPI Data Protection Officer and Enterprise Information Security Officer.

BPI Branch Lobby

Here are some fun tips to remember to avoid being “haunted” by scammers:

  • Witchcraft for Passwords – Cast a spell on your passwords by mixing letters, numbers, and symbols that are hard to decipher. Remember, a strong password decreases the risks of getting hacked and your data being compromised.
  • Haunted Wi-Fi – Always check the security of your own Wi-Fi connection. Make sure it is password-protected and not easily accessible to anyone unseen.
  • Don’t Invite Unwanted Guests – Just like you wouldn’t want random spirits to come uninvited, don’t accept friend and/or follow requests from strangers. It is best to keep your social media circle small and tight rather than having multiple random acquaintances.
  • Privacy Settings: Your Cloak of Invisibility – Make sure to utilize those privacy settings as a good invisibility cloak. You can also explore the advanced privacy settings option for added protection. It is important to keep your data hidden from prying eyes.

BPI strives to deliver safer and better banking experiences by collaborating with its customers. Go to www.bpi.com.ph to find out more about BPI’s online security protocols and how you may further defend yourself from cyberattacks.