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The British Council provides five simple IELTS test-taking strategies for students getting ready to study overseas

  • The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the widely accepted and recognised English test taken by students and professionals wanting to work, live, and study abroad.  
  • The British Council, through the IELTS Ready Premium, equips aspiring international students with the right tools and support to take the IELTS with confidence and ease.
  • The IELTS Ready Premium is the British Council’s latest support tool, offering personalised and comprehensive resources to help Filipino students who aim to study abroad effectively prepare for their exams.

Taking the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), which is the global standard for English proficiency, gives Filipino students who want to study abroad access to some of the most prominent universities in the world. Through its IELTS Ready Premium, the British Council assists test-takers by offering essential tools and resources, such as simple yet effective IELTS test tips, so they may confidently prepare for the test and get closer to their educational goals.

In order to address typical issues including time management, test anxiety, and complicated question types, test-takers can obtain expert IELTS test advice, individualized study programs, and practice exams through the British Council’s free assistance service, IELTS Ready Premium. With its comprehensive coverage of reading, writing, speaking, and listening, the tool gives students the resources and confidence they need to ace the IELTS exam.


Backed by research and insights of actual test-takers, the British Council shares 5 proven IELTS test tips for students to approach the exam with confidence and ease:

IELTS Test Tip #1:
Know the IELTS test format.

Knowing what to expect is half the battle won. The IELTS Ready Premium includes well-organised, easy-to-follow exercises for each section—listening, reading, writing, and speaking—that mirror the actual exam, ensuring students are fully prepared for what is to come on exam day.

“The free materials from the British Council provided me the familiarisation to navigate the test, and gave me the confidence to get the band score I needed to study abroad,” shares Casey Cruz, 2nd Prize Winner of IELTS Prize 2023 Philippines and now pursuing a Master of Arts in Human Rights at Mahidol University, Thailand.

IELTS Test Tip #2:
Practise with timed mock tests.

The pressure of time can trip up even the most prepared students. Timed mock exams from IELTS Ready Premium simulate the actual test environment, allowing students to practise under pressure, and build familiarity with pacing and timing across sections.

“Taking the practice tests will take away your anxiety and worry because you will get a feel of the flow and the timing of the exam, allowing you to manage your time and plan how you can answer with the time constraint,” advises Rafi Sartin, 3rd Place Winner of the IELTS Prize 2023 Philippines, and currently completing her masters degree in Marketing at Western Sydney University, Australia.

IELTS Test Tip #3:
Follow a personalised study plan.

Every student learns differently, and a customised study plan makes all the difference. With its adaptive learning features, IELTS Ready Premium helps students study at their own pace, and focus on areas that need improvement based on individual learning styles and needs.

“The tailored study plan helped me concentrate on improving specific skills, especially with the personalised videos and targeted exercises,” shares Dorothy Pugoy, now a certified medical laboratory scientist in the United States of America.

IELTS Test Tip #4:
Focus on strengths, improve weaknesses.

Knowing what works and what doesn’t is key to effective exam preparation. The IELTS Ready Premium includes practice tests for listening, reading, writing, and speaking, which provides possible bandscores for each section, helping students pinpoint their strengths and areas for improvement.

“Writing and reading have always been my forte but it turns out that it is the field that I needed help the most. After spending hours reading handouts during my breaks, I worked on those weak spots, while strengthening the areas I had already mastered,” recalls Tracy Salazar, who reached her target band score to study abroad for a post-baccalaureate degree.

IELTS Test Tip#5:
Learn from mistakes.

Mistakes are a natural part of learning. With model answers from test takers at various band levels and detailed feedback explaining what is right or wrong, IELTS Ready Premium helps students identify and correct errors to refine their answers.

“The practice tests gave me an idea on how I was doing so far in terms of reaching my target score to work or study abroad. I appreciate having model answers in the subtests based on the band scores available, since it gave me more ideas on how to compose and improve my answers,” shares Julienne Roman, who scored above her desired band level for future plans to work in the US healthcare industry.

The British Council is dedicated to helping Filipino students successfully pursue their aspirations to study abroad, in addition to helping them prepare for their IELTS test examinations. Through the IELTS Ready Premium, students may access a variety of IELTS exam tips, tools, and guidance that will help them achieve their academic objectives and realize their international job aspirations.

Sign-up for IELTS on computer examinations in select locations until December 31 to get a special price offer, gift vouchers and access to IELTS Ready Premium. When registering online at bit.ly/BCIELTSHoliday2024, enter the promo code BCHoliday2024. Visit the IELTS British Council Facebook page or website to find out more about the features of the IELTS Ready Premium.

November 26, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

OZAM: Service Options for Filipinos Abroad Are Available on Iskaparate.com’s Canada Portal

With the debut of Ozam, Iskaparate.com, a multi-vendor e-commerce network that links local business owners to a plethora of options through business, marketing, and financial help, has extended its reach into Canada.

Iskaparate.com continues to demonstrate its progressive measures to become a more inclusive institution for all entrepreneurs and customers with its recent press event that provided imaginative insights into its history, distinguishing features, and B2B platform.

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Canada can offer handmade goods to Canadian consumers through Ozam, a Canadian gateway inside Iskaparate.com, if they wish to supplement their day job earnings and save money for their return to the Philippines.

Aside from its typical e-commerce activities, Ozam’s main highlight is its service-focused product line that connects Filipinos abroad to their homeland by enabling users to send gifts, request errands, join live-streamed learning sessions, and connect with the Filipino-Canadian community.

Inaugural Products of Iskaparate Canada

Four flagship product solutions bridge cultural and practical gaps for Filipinos abroad to keep strong and accessible connections to the Philippines.

Ozam Gift

Ozam Gift is an e-gift card available specifically for Filipinos in Canada who want a flexible, cross-border shopping option. Buyers can purchase a card in multiples of CAD 100 to either send them to family and friends back in the Philippines or treat themselves. This gift card can be used to purchase items on the platform.

Users are given spending flexibility as card utilization can be in small portions or all at once. It’s also usable on both Philippine and Canadian storefronts. When used to buy Philippine SKUs, the CAD balance is converted to PHP at the current monthly rate.

Concierge

Iskaparate.com points out the idea of Concierge as stemming from the Filipino term “pakisuyo” which means “favor.” This service is for those who need errands done for them, functioning much like a paid card for personalized tasks. Buyers simply select the service, describe their request, and await confirmation. Within 24 hours, Iskaparate sends a full quote which includes item or service costs and a nominal markup.

Once confirmed, Iskaparate.com’s team takes on the responsibility of fulfilling the errand. It could be organizing rides, hiring a tutor, arranging a small gathering, or simply picking up an item. All completed tasks are accompanied by visual proof to reinforce the trustworthiness that Ozam delivers as it promises.

Ozam Talk

Ozam Talk is a service that gives Filipinos in Canada access to learning opportunities and expert-led discussions across a range of topics. This includes personal finance, food safety, health, and others. These sessions, being presented by professionals from different fields, give practical insights and skills directly from experience. A session may feature senior physicians discussing health conditions, chefs sharing food styling tips, or digital marketers explaining strategies.

Joining from anywhere is easy thanks to its live-streamed sessions scheduled on specific dates. After purchasing, attendees receive a secure link to join. An additional fee secures a personal copy of the entire session.

Ozam Chamber

Ozam Chamber is a service in collaboration with the Philippine Canadian Chamber of Commerce (PCCC), an exclusive channel for Filipinos who want to stay actively involved in community events, networking, and initiatives. Through the Ozam Chamber payment service, users can pay membership dues, event fees, or donations directly on the platform.

The service process is fairly straightforward. After selecting their desired service, users fill in a registration form and proceed to payment. Given its systematic method and attested partnership, members can guarantee smooth access to events, services, and updates from the chamber.

From Local to Global: Iskaparate.com’s Vision for Filipinos Everywhere

Iskaparate.com’s efforts to transition from a regional e-commerce platform to a worldwide service provider are part of their goal to uphold relationships across national boundaries. The changing demands of Filipinos around the world are satisfied by Ozam, and offering culturally appropriate services is easy and accessible no matter where they are.

To learn more, go to www.iskaparate.com

November 25, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

Iskaparate.com Arranges a Fundraising Campaign to Help Typhoon Victims in Bicol

Iskaparate.com, the first e-commerce platform to support local micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs), has started a fundraising drive to aid impacted families and communities in the wake of the terrible consequences of the recent typhoon that hit Bicol.

Iskaparate.com has teamed up with Simbag sa Pag-Asenso Inc. and the Angat Buhay Foundation, two reputable organizations with a long history of helping Filipino communities in times of need, to offer a prompt and direct solution to the situation’s pressing needs.

Customers can easily send their contributions by purchasing gift checks of a certain amount directly on the platform. The total funds raised through these gift checks will be managed by Angat Buhay and Simbag sa Pag-Asenso, who will use the accumulated proceeds to deliver food, clothing, hygiene products, and other necessities, directly to relief centers in Bicol.

To kickstart the fundraising drive, Iskaparate.com made its own gift check purchase followed by its marketing arm, DTC Promos Inc.

Iskaparate.com wants to make this campaign not just a vital relief effort but also a chance for communities to unite during difficult times, in keeping with the platform’s original goal of supporting local companies and enterprising women. In addition to mobilizing local support, this program aims to support Filipinos living overseas who want to give back and lend a helping hand despite their distance.

To donate, just go to the website and place an order for a gift check.

To learn more, go to www.iskaparate.com.        

November 25, 2024 by
Lifestyle

Get more out of your Christmas festivities with Digido’s Ho-ho-holiday Extravaganza raffle promotion

Prizes include PHP 30,000 cash, SM Gift Passes and Lazada Gift Cards.

With its Ho-ho-holiday Extravaganza lottery promotion, Digido, a multi-awarded digital lending platform, is happy to give its borrowers the chance to elevate their Christmas festivities.

Prizes consist of SM Gift Passes, Lazada Gift Cards and PHP 30,000 cash for one winner.

The seasonal deal is available to both new and returning customers who successfully apply for a new loan between November 14 and December 11, 2024.

Digido’s official Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/digidoph/) will use the clients’ Lifetime IDs to announce the giveaway winners.

With Digido’s First Loan For Free program, new borrowers can get up to PHP 4,000 with no interest, while returning customers can get a regular personal loan up to PHP 25,000. It is accessible via Lazada Loans, its main website, digido.ph, and its applications on Google Play and the iOS App Store.

Commenting on the promotion, Digido business development manager Rose Arreco said: “It’s no secret that Filipinos are big on the significance of Christmas and festive celebrations. Through this promotion, we wanted to give back to our clients by helping during the holiday rush and have a role in their Noche Buenas, get-togethers and gift-giving events. We are incredibly grateful to them for trusting our services this year and are eager to remain their financial partner in the years to come.”

Services under the Digido platform are financed by Digido Finance Corp. with SEC Registration No. 202003056 and Certificate of Authority No. 1272.

Digido’s trusted services have been lauded by the Global Retail Banking Innovation Awards, International Finance Awards, World Business Outlook Awards, International Business Magazine Awards, Pan Finance Awards, The Global Economics Awards, the Global Banking & Finance Review and the Global Financial Market Review.

November 25, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

A Two-Decade Tradition of Dream-Building: SMDC’s Journey to Building The Good Life

Bloom Residences in Paranaque is one testament to SMDC’s commitment to building homes that bring Filipino families together and give them a taste of The Good Life.

SM Development Corporation (SMDC) has always been a dream-builder for Filipinos, not just a real estate firm. As it celebrates its 20th anniversary, SMDC looks back on 20 years of building houses, changing neighborhoods, and enabling Filipinos from all walks of life to realize their dream of homeownership. In keeping with the Sy family’s goal of empowering people by providing them with access to high-quality living, SMDC has constructed more than 183,000 residential units around the Philippines as of the end of 2023.

In addition to helping Filipino families, SMDC is continuing to work toward its goal of improving the lives of people. This plan of obtaining a decent life is their growing desire, as we have seen in the ever-changing growth of SMDC. The idea of having a place of residence or a condominium of my own makes me very happy. In addition to being a wise investment, I stand to gain from it over time.

Living the Good Life

Leading the charge today is Jessica Bianca Sy, Vice President and Head of Design, Innovation, and Strategy at SMDC, who is ensuring that SMDC’s vision evolves to meet the needs of the future. With a focus on sustainable living, Jessica’s leadership emphasizes creating communities where Filipinos can thrive for generations. “We’re not just building homes,” she shares. “We’re building sustainable communities where families can thrive for years to come, where every Filipino can live the life they deserve.”

For two decades, SMDC has been building sustainable communities all over the Philippines. Style Residences in Iloilo City is its first development in the Visayas.

Legacy in Motion

The story of SMDC is one of legacy and long-term vision. It all began with Henry Sy Sr., whose commitment to providing quality footwear for Filipinos laid the groundwork for something much bigger. Henry Sy Jr. then took this vision further by focusing on creating a nation of homeowners, ensuring Filipinos could enjoy stability and pride through homeownership.

Prime location, high investment returns – Sail Residences at MOA offers thriving, sustainable living by SMDC.

Jessica Bianca Sy carries on this tradition today by striving to give every Filipino the chance to enjoy the “Good Life” in a community that was developed with sustainability in mind. “Our focus is not just creating spaces for people to live in,” says Jessica, “but spaces where they can form enduring relationships, build their dreams, and experience the Good Life.”

Next Stop: The Future

From high-rises to mid-rises to house-and-lot developments, SMDC has it all for discerning Filipino buyers. Cheerful Homes 2 offers a horizontal development with SMDC’s signature sustainable community features.

In the future, SMDC is still dedicated to sustainability, innovation, and diversity. With a persistent emphasis on developing thriving communities that represent the evolving needs of contemporary Filipinos, the future is bright. As the business develops, it becomes evident that SMDC’s goal of giving people places to live, grow, and prosper—rather than merely houses—will continue for many generations to come.

November 25, 2024 by
Lifestyle

Mav Strive PH Introduces a Game-Changing Collection of Premium Bags and Office Essentials

Elevate Your Everyday: Mav Strive PH’s Stylish Solutions for Modern Living

Caption: Watch out for Mav Strive PH year-end promo. Check out their website!

This year, the local fashion and lifestyle scene welcomes an exciting new player: Mav Strive PH, a proudly Filipino brand built on the mantra “Strive For More.” Spearheaded by young entrepreneur, content creator and digital marketer Ric Abasola, Mav Strive PH aims to redefine sophistication and utility with its meticulously crafted collection of bags and office accessories.

Launching during the last quarter of 2024 via its e-commerce store and social media platforms, Mav Strive PH has already made a remarkable impression. The brand promises to continue its growth with an official launch event in 2025 and plans to expand into partner retail stores.

A Vision Born from Passion

Ric Abasola’s vision for Mav Strive PH, together with his co-creator, Marvin Ortiz, started as a passion project during the pandemic. “We’ve been wanting to launch this project right after the pandemic,” Ric shared. “This project has been discussed and planned with some friends, but it was just parked. Now, here it is—we hope the market will appreciate the premium items we’re releasing, as we’ve put so much passion and effort into making this a reality.”

From its carefully sourced high-quality materials to its urban-chic designs, the collection reflects a commitment to excellence. “I can’t believe that the bags and other items are now available. We’re proud of this product line, and we hope more people will appreciate it,” Ric added.

Caption: Mav Strive PH Creators Ric Abasola and Marvin Ortiz sport their Urban Voyager Mav Strive Bags

The Mav Strive Collection: Premium Quality Meets Urban Sophistication

Mav Strive PH boasts a variety of products designed to resonate with modern professionals, students, and active urbanites.

UrbanWayfarers: Your Go-To Companion for Life’s Adventures

Perfect for students, professionals, and on-the-go individuals, UrbanWayfarers offers compact yet spacious designs. Its waterproof materials and built-in USB charging port make it ideal for both the daily grind and weekend adventures.

UrbanRide: Elevate Your Journey

A streamlined backpack for commuters, students, and active individuals, UrbanRide stands out with its lightweight yet rugged construction, dedicated gadget compartments, and weatherproof design.

UrbanAstro: Be Out of This World

This bag is a secret weapon for professionals and students who seek a sleek, modern design with superior functionality, including a laptop sleeve and a luggage strap for easy travel.

UrbanGrind: Going Places

For those who demand style and functionality, UrbanGrind combines premium waterproof materials with an organized interior, ensuring you look sharp and stay organized from the boardroom to the street.

UrbanSling: Compact and Secure

Ideal for quick errands or city adventures, UrbanSling offers stealthy compartments, anti-theft features, and a built-in USB charging port.

UrbanVoyager: The Premium Travel Essential

Tailored for the modern professional, UrbanVoyager pairs classic design with multi-functional pockets and a dismountable shoulder strap, ensuring you travel in style and comfort.

Kingsman’s Wallet: Sophistication Meets Innovation

Crafted for the discerning individual, Kingsman’s Wallet combines RFID-blocking technology, sleek storage, and timeless elegance, making it the ultimate accessory for style and security.

Check out more about the product details on their online shop. Click here.

Targeting the Modern Urbanite

Mav Strive PH is tailored for:

● Urban Chic: For city dwellers who value fashion and utility.

● Active Lifestyles: Designed for commuting, errands, and travel.

● Professional Excellence: Crafted to elevate your corporate look.

● Sophistication and Luxury: Perfect for those who appreciate premium materials and craftsmanship.

A Future Full of Promise

Mav Strive PH has already received glowing feedback from early adopters. “These items are made with high-quality materials and were created with passion, ensuring durability,” Ric emphasized. To celebrate its soft launch, the brand is offering exclusive promotions this month. Customers can also look forward to new product lines in 2025, ensuring that Mav Strive PH remains at the forefront of premium accessories.

For more details and to shop the collection, visit www.mavstrive.com or follow their journey on social media.

With its elegant and functional designs, Mav Strive PH is set to inspire individuals to Strive For More—because excellence deserves no compromise.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mavstrive

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mavstrive/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mavstrive
 

November 23, 2024 by
Food, Lifestyle

Iskaparate.com Celebrates World Entrepreneurs’ Day with a Digital Launch and a Christmas Mooncake Workshop

Photo shows from left: Iskaparate President & COO Josefina Rojo-Natividad, All About Baking Director Kyne Gorospe, Chef Instructor Catherine Blas-Yu, DTC Promos Inc. President & COO Marissa Dames, and Unox Corporate Chef Karhen Igarashi in a fun photo opportunity to celebrate workshop success and a trusted partnership.

Chef Cathy Yu of Save Bakery and Café Philippines will be hosting a Christmas Mooncake Workshop at All About Baking SM North EDSA, The Block, as part of Iskaparate.com’s digital media launch in honor of World Entrepreneurs’ Day on November 19, 2024.

The digital debut, which followed its recent October 15, 2024, opening at Overdoughs Café in Ayala Malls Circuit, Makati, sought to illustrate the platform’s capabilities beyond simply a multi-vendor e-commerce platform.

Iskaparate.com highlighted through a practical workshop conducted by a baking industry specialist that it also offers training to help individuals refine their abilities and knowledge and explore other fields of competence that promote both technical business improvement and personal development.

As we tackled the ventures of Iskaparate, we learned a lot from them and enjoyed each thing that they had shared with us. One of the activities that we did during the media lunch was teaching us how to bake. I really had a wonderful time and enjoyed it very much since I don’t know how to cook. This activity became a tough challenge for me, and I managed it successfully. Aside from that, we had acquired different skills, knowledge, and ideas from them.

Two members of the core team of Iskaparate.com, DTC Promos Inc. and Iskaparate President & COO Josefina Natividad, attended the session. Marissa Dames, the president and COO, as well as a number of media representatives, internet influencers, and content producers from many industries.

In addition to learning about Iskaparate.com’s mission and story, the guests had the opportunity to observe how mooncakes are made in advance of the holidays, which gave them a sense of what it’s like to be a part of the community.

One of the highlights of the event was a brief speech by Chef Alphie Azarias, Marketing Development Specialist at Unox Asia. Chef Klyne Gorospe of All About Baking then gave a warm welcome to the guests and expressed excitement about soon joining Iskaparate.com as a vendor, expanding the platform’s offerings to include high-end professional kitchen equipment and in-demand baking supplies.

In 2020, Iskaparate.com was established to assist business-minded women in maintaining their operations amidst the COVID-19 epidemic. On the new platform, there are now 3,000 thoroughly screened sellers of all kinds, compared to 33 nanays in the past.

Since then, the original objective has expanded to include empowering local community vendors and micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs) through business-to-business (B2B) partnerships and assisting them in navigating the digital economy through a variety of marketing methods and business growth prospects. With the opening of Ozam, its Canadian portal, and plans for gateways in the US and Singapore, the platform will soon expand globally.

With its B2B expansion, Iskaparate.com offers merchants easy access to wholesale products, competitive pricing, and strategic alliances with major companies in the market like Suy Sing and Hypha. For distributors, owners of sari-sari stores, restaurants, caterers, and other small companies in the Philippines, this negosyo platform promises simplified procedures, financial support, and an intuitive user experience.

The B2B platform offered by Iskaparate.com is revolutionary for companies of all sizes, from little sari-sari shops to major wholesalers. Iskaparate.com is poised to provide business owners with impermeable solutions with its negosyo tools for businesses and collaborations with industry titans like Suy Sing and Hypha.

Iskaparate.com core team, industry partners, media representatives. and content creators in a commemorative photograph after the workshop.

I got my certificate of participation for the Christmas Mooncake Workshop at All About Baking SM North EDSA, The Block

Iskaparate.com is the perfect partner for companies looking to improve operations and profitability because of its BNPL financial alternatives, nationwide delivery convenience, and easy registration process.

What makes it different from other business-to-business platforms?

  1. Competitive Wholesale Pricing

One of the strongest features of Iskaparate.com as an online negosyo platform is its access to competitive wholesale prices. Through its collaboration with partners such as Suy Sing and Hypha, businesses can enjoy prices significantly lower than traditional retail stores. For businesses managing their margins, this makes a significant difference when it comes to driving profitability, especially when selling in large quantities.

As observed in the comparison from a recent pricing study, Iskaparate.com consistently offers better deals compared to other competitors, including well-known grocery wholesale stores. Price differences range from a few cents to a couple of pesos.

See Table 1 for price comparison.

ProductIskaparate PriceGrocery X
DATU PUTI SOYSAUCE TABA PK60/200M 9.73 10.15
DATU PUTIVINEGAR TABA PCK60/200ML 7.47 7.75
MANG TOMASALL-AROUNDSARSA 24/325G 34.41 36.75
UFC BANANACATSUP 24/320G   23.78   26.75
CALLA PWD FBCNF.FRSH V 240/45G   6.09   6.10
THOSE DAYSS.NAPKIN REG NW60/8’S 12.80 12.95
THOSE DAYSS.NAPKIN WINGS60/8’S 16.33 15.45
COLGATE TPSTEGRF REG 12/12/24G   7.79   7.61

Table 1

  • Financial Assistance: Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL)

Iskaparate.com goes beyond just offering competitive pricing; this online marketplace also recognizes the financial struggles that many small businesses face. That’s where their financial assistance option comes into play, provided through a partner organization. With Iskaparate.com‘s BNPL feature, registered businesses, such as sari-sari store suppliers, can choose a more flexible payment method at checkout that makes it easier to stock up on essential inventory without immediate financial pressure. Approval for this payment option is required but opens up a more accessible route for businesses to maintain cash flow while meeting customer demand.

  • Quick Registration Process and Free Membership

Iskaparate.com understands that time is money, especially for small business owners. negosyo platform for sari-sari store owners offers free registration to welcome new joiners without incurring upfront costs. Once registered, approval typically occurs in as fast as 48 hours. This simple sign-up process ensures that even start-up sari-sari stores can access wholesale products and competitive pricing right away.

For further convenience, businesses can sign up with their name and customer addresses, especially if they plan to distribute to multiple locations.

Suy Sing orders above ₱5,000 are also automatically eligible for free shipping, making Iskaparate.com an attractive option for businesses operating in both serviceable and non-serviceable areas.

Register your sari-sari store on Iskaparate!

Become a B2B negosyo partner to access exclusive pricing and wholesale products that fit the needs of your business. Partnering with Iskaparate.com means gaining access to a wide range of products, special deals, and support to help your business grow. Once you’re set up as a partner, don’t forget to register to shop on Iskaparate to unlock even more benefits and resources.

  • Iskaparate.com B2B Partners: Suy Sing and Hypha

Suy Sing, one of the country’s largest wholesale distributors, is known for decades of expertise and a vast inventory of consumer goods. Hypha, on the other hand, provides health, beauty, and wellness solutions.

Through these partnerships that bring wholesale solutions for sari-sari stores, businesses can access a wide range of high-quality products—from pantry essentials to wellness needs—all under one roof. This level of convenience is crucial for small businesses that often lack the resources to manage multiple suppliers efficiently.

  • Logistics and Nationwide Reach

Iskaparate.com ensures smooth delivery of orders from Suy Sing for sari-sari store wholesale deals across the country through the latter’s strategically located warehouses. With facilities in Metro Manila (Taguig, Parañaque, and Binondo) and provincial locations (Bacolod, Cagayan De Oro, Cauayan Isabela, Davao, Iloilo, Labangan Zamboanga Del Sur, Lipa Batangas), Suy Sing can efficiently serve businesses in urban and rural areas. For companies based outside serviceable zones, Iskaparate.com’s process allows distributors to register customer addresses in these zones under the same name, guaranteeing that goods still reach their intended destinations without extra delivery fees.

  • Flexible Margin Options

Iskaparate.com allows negosyo e-commerce users to set their own margins as long as they remain competitive. This allows distributors and sellers to tailor their pricing strategies according to their target market to ensure profitability while maintaining attractive offers for their customers.

Iskaparate.com‘s B2B platform is a game-changer for businesses, regardless of whether they are small sari-sari stores or large-scale distributors. With its negosyo tools for entrepreneurs and partnerships with industry leaders like Suy Sing and Hypha, Iskaparate.com is set to offer airtight solutions for business owners.

The added convenience of nationwide delivery, BNPL financial options, and a systematic registration process make Iskaparate.com an ideal partner for businesses trying to enhance their operations and profits.

To learn more, go to www.iskaparate.com.

November 21, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The MasterPacT MTZ Active addresses these challenges by:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

November 20, 2024 by
Lifestyle, Tech

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

November 20, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

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

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

Celebrating Success with Our Media Partners: 

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

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

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

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

Organizers Behind the Magic:

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

Save the Date:

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

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

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

November 20, 2024 by