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Lifestyle, News

Bossjob introduces new features in 2024 to give SEA talents a better job-hunting experience

The chat-first platform introduces new features to connect users with global and remote job markets

With the introduction of new features that make it easier for talent to access jobs abroad and remote work chances, Bossjob—the chat-first career platform that is transforming professional hiring in Southeast Asia (SEA)—is putting career prospects even more within reach for talent.

A new element of the employment platform that enables recruiters from all around the world to connect with talent in Asia, including the Philippines, has officially debuted. On the Bossjob website, employers can now post job openings worldwide by choosing the ‘International’ option and focusing on particular nations where they are looking for top talent.

This capability not only makes setting up remote teams and outsourcing easier, but it also lets employers create a presence in previously underserved locations. Bossjob hopes to lower recruitment expenses and improve cross-border hiring procedures for businesses with the new functionality.

Bossjob’s new feature comes particularly timely in helping employers seize opportunities to attract top talent. It is anticipated that individuals will be reassessing their career paths at the start of 2024. The start of a new year typically serves as a period for introspection and the setting of resolutions, leading many to reevaluate their professional aspirations and strive to begin the year on a positive note.

Moreover, Bossjob particularly sees the importance of making these job opportunities more accessible to Filipinos. The Philippines Freelance Market 2022 Report suggested many Filipinos thrive as freelancers, benefitting from overseas freelancing opportunities.

Meanwhile, the platform has also launched the remote jobs section, making it easier for talents to scroll around the opportunities that best suit them. Job seekers can easily go to the “Remote Jobs” section of the Bossjob website and check hundreds of remote job positions across various industries, including information technology, customer service, human resources, sales, finance, manufacturing, banking, and healthcare.

Bossjob CEO Anthony Garcia says the company hopes to bring opportunities not only closer but more accessible to more Filipinos.

“With our new international feature and dedicated remote jobs section, we’re not just expanding horizons, but we’re actively dismantling barriers to global employment and fostering a more inclusive, accessible job market. At Bossjob, we believe that a great career should be accessible to everyone, everywhere, and our latest features are a significant step towards making that belief a reality,” Garcia said.

Preference for remote work among job seekers continues to rise

Starting in Q3 of 2023, Bossjob began supporting hybrid and remote job opportunities, leading to a significant increase in such listings. The number of jobs posted in these categories has since doubled, underscoring a growing trend in the employment market.

Key industries embracing this trend include Information Technology (IT), sales, and emerging web3 sectors. Remote roles in high demand range from sales representatives and accountants to administrative assistants and business development managers.

The introduction of these flexible work options has led to a substantial increase in job seeker interest. Bossjob reports a sevenfold rise in the number of candidates seeking remote or hybrid work arrangements, with about 32% of its over 3 million active job seekers exploring these options.

The preference for remote work extends across various job categories, with customer service representatives (CSR), entry-level jobs, and IT roles being particularly sought after.

In addition to increased demand, Bossjob’s data shows salaries for hybrid work arrangements are equally attractive to those opportunities that require people to work on-site. For instance, remote CSR roles offer an average salary of Php 29,000, compared to the Php 27,000 average pay for on-site positions.

Bossjob’s expansion to supporting remote and hybrid work opportunities reflects a broader global trend and demonstrates the platform’s commitment to evolving with the changing job market dynamics.

“In a rapidly evolving job market, Bossjob is at the forefront of the shift towards a project-based economy in the Philippines. Our data shows not just a trend but a reflection of a deeper change in work preferences. As we continue to champion this shift, Bossjob remains committed to connecting talent with forward-thinking employers, reshaping the workforce for a more dynamic and adaptable future,” Garcia said.

Bossjob is a developing company in Asia, with operations in the Philippines, Singapore, Japan, Indonesia, and Hong Kong. By 2026, the company hopes to have over 30 million customers in the region. This year, it began providing free services as part of its aim to increase its market share internationally.

Go to https://bossjob.com/ to learn more about how to start the new year with a successful career achievement from Bossjob.

Lifestyle, News

Transforming Philippine digital entertainment

Putting the GAME in eGaming: DigiPlus utilises cutting-edge technologies and a deep bench of experts from different spaces within the gaming industry

The culture of the Philippines is strongly rooted on traditional bingo. With each game, these gaming activities have provided a space where individuals from all walks of life may unwind, have fun, and form deep friendships.

But the extraordinary times brought about by the pandemic, along with quarantine laws prohibiting social gatherings of any kind, completely altered the gaming sector. Additionally, the public crisis hastened the global use of digital technology. This occurs amid a youthful population that is proficient in using technology and a notable increase in smartphone and Internet usage in recent years.

For the gaming and leisure business DigiPlus Interactive, this presented both a challenge and an opportunity to lead digitalization in the Philippine gaming sector while generating entertaining experiences for its gamers across channels.

DigiPlus Interactive has launched BingoPlus in January 2022. It is the first digital platform where bingo-loving Filipinos can play with the convenience of time and place by bringing the game live online. BingoPlus leverages the company’s deep understanding of its customers whilst bringing in innovation and technologies to offer new entertainment product formats to more Filipinos.

BingoPlus’ brick-and-mortar or traditional bingo operations also complemented the foray into the digital space. DigiPlus Interactive currently operates at least 200 bingo halls in different parts of the Philippines, which continue to be popular amongst Filipinos.

The strong performance of BingoPlus propelled the robust growth of DigiPlus. In 2022, DigiPlus posted a turnaround in its financial performance, with a net income of ₱686.9m coming from a net loss of ₱894.6m in the previous year. Furthermore, in the first nine months of 2023, DigiPlus registered a net income of ₱2.1b, more than a tenfold growth from 2022.

As the first and only government-licensed digital bingo platform in the country, BingoPlus is reshaping the country’s gaming industry. Continuing to dominate the digital gaming space, BingoPlus has opened up new opportunities, triggering a proliferation of online gaming platforms in the Philippines. This healthy competition fosters innovation and creativity that fundamentally benefits the customers.

The platform has also since become a community and entertainment platform, a source of revenue for the Philippine government, and a contributor to various social and educational non-profit programmes.

“The success of BingoPlus has paved the way for [DigiPlus] to undertake a strategic transformation to position itself as a digital entertainment platform,” the company said. It added its plans of launching new and innovative game offerings to cater to broader demographics and lifestyle preferences.

The platform was recognised at the first Asian Management Excellence Awards for its efforts in revolutionising the digital gaming experience and for its ongoing investment in research and development. The company was awarded the Philippines Innovator of the Year – Media & Entertainment category.

The esteemed awards program honors the best entrepreneurs, innovators, and businesses in Asia and recognizes remarkable accomplishments in a range of operational domains, such as health and wellness, diversity and inclusion, and employee engagement.

Lifestyle, News

Creating a Web That Is Safer for Companies: On Safer Internet Day, Eastern Communications Brings the Most Awareness

In keeping with the worldwide celebration of Safer Internet Day 2024, leading telecoms provider Eastern Communications takes the lead in bringing attention to the vital problem of online security. Eastern Communications is at the forefront of educating and safeguarding individuals and businesses alike in the face of the increasing frequency of online frauds, notably through work emails and deceptive links.

According to data published by Sophos in 2023, ransomware attacks against private sector companies resulted in 84% of the victims’ financial losses, and 30% of cyberattacks were coordinated via email.

“We understand the threats online scams pose, and they have become increasingly sophisticated,” said Rex Evangelista, Eastern Communications’ Head of Information Technology Department, “Our mission is not only to provide top-notch security solutions but also to educate our internal and external stakeholders to practice awareness and resilience against these threats.”

Online scams, especially through work emails, mimicked email accounts, and suspicious links, are on the rise due to sophisticated phishing attacks, advanced social engineering tactics, and the exploitation of system vulnerabilities and human error. The shift towards remote work and the increasing reliance on digital communication have further exposed businesses to these threats.


Eastern Communications prioritizes digital safety through comprehensive internal practices. Staff training programs are a cornerstone of this initiative, equipping employees with essential skills to recognize and counter potential online threats.

This dedication to cybersecurity is further cemented by Eastern Communications’ ISO 27001 certification, an internationally recognized standard for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS), underscoring the company’s steadfast commitment to securing data and managing the information of its stakeholders responsibly.

The process is followed by extending Eastern’s expertise to its customers and partners through thought leadership sessions, technological workshops like Access Eastern, and online educational materials like videos, posts, and blogs.

Finally, Eastern Communications delivers holistic cyber defense solutions to its clients and identifies four online safety essentials to combat various threats originating from emails and online sources. The full suite, covering all stages of cyberattacks, includes the Sophos XG Firewall (Next Generation Firewall), Central Intercept X Advanced (CIXA), Central Email Advanced for email security, and Sophos Phish Threat for educating the whole organization.

The Sophos XG Firewall is a Next Generation Firewall that safeguards users throughout the initial stages of ransomware attacks. XG Firewall includes one of the best-performing IPS engines on the market and offers easy, simple, and flexible tools to secure your LAN.

CIXA on the other hand, is a cloud-based security platform that combines advanced endpoint detection and response with anti-malware protection to spot cybersecurity vulnerabilities and block malicious attempts. CIXA is an endpoint security solution that employs machine learning, allowing it to understand new forms of threats and risks.

To complete the online defense suite, Eastern offers Central Email Advanced, a secure email gateway engineered to keep businesses safe from all email threats, and Sophos Phish Threats, a phishing attack simulation system that assesses the organization’s preparedness against real-world attacks.

“In today’s digital age, understanding the landscape of online threats is as crucial as having the tools to combat them. Our approach is holistic – we focus on empowering users with knowledge as well as technology,” Evangelista emphasized.

Eastern Communications confirms its commitment to improving online security and establishing new benchmarks in the fight against digital dangers in honor of the yearly Safer Internet Day. Eastern is a leader in enabling people and companies to securely navigate the digital world by fusing cutting-edge technology with educational outreach, spurring change toward a more educated and safe online environment.

Contact 5300-7000 or go to www.eastern.com.ph to find out more about Eastern Communications’ business-grade cyber defense solutions.

Lifestyle, News

DTI invites innovative firms to use its IDEA and ADVANCE programs to launch their enterprises


The accompanying photo features (seated from left to right) Dir Lilian Salonga, DTI-CIG; Usec. Rafaelita Aldaba, DTI-CIG; Congresswoman Stella Quimbo, Marikina City,2nd District Representative; OIC Regional Director Ma. Sofia Narag, DTI-NCRO; Vishal Aditya Potluri, Social Sector Specialist, Asian Development Bank. (Standing from left to right) ED Maria Rita Matute, DCP; DED Lucky Lopez, DCP; OIC Asst. RD Revelyn Cortez, DTI Region IV-A; Aurelien Chu, Co-founder, Eskwelabs; Bing Icamina, Team Leader, Certeza + Techno Earth JV; Asst. Sec. Domingo Tolentino, Jr., DTI-ROG; Jojo Flores, Co-Founder Plug and Play Tech Center; Jay Fajardo, CEO Launchgarage; Jundio Salvador-President of PCCI-New Marikina; Roger Py, Jr., PFFI; Sam Ang, Consultant, ADB; Engr. Liza Lopez-DPWH MM1stDEO.

In order to encourage and strengthen the creative industries in the Philippines, the Department of Trade and Industry, through the Competitiveness and Innovation Group (DTI-CIG), is seeking innovative startup companies to join their two programs.

In order to help creative startups in the Philippines become market- and investment-ready, the DTI-CIG, under the direction of Undersecretary Rafaelita M. Aldaba, has launched the creatives edition of the Incubation, Development, and Entrepreneurial Assistance (IDEA) and Accelerating Development, Valuation, and Corporate Entrepreneurship (ADVanCE) programs in collaboration with startup accelerator Launchgarage.

The deadline for applications is February 11, 2024. Interested parties can visit the DTI-CIG Facebook page, the official websites of the ADVanCE program and the IDEA program-creatives edition, to learn more about the programs and submit applications.

“The programs are a testament to the Philippine government’s belief in the immense potential of Filipino creativity and entrepreneurship. By providing the much-needed support and platform, we are setting the stage for creative startups to not only thrive locally but also make a significant impact on the global stage. The creative sector is a vital component of our economy and cultural identity, and through initiatives like these, we aim to foster an environment where ideas can flourish, talents are honed, and success stories are born,” Usec. Aldaba said.

The Philippine creative industries play a significant role in the national economy. Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) revealed the creative economy amounted to P1.60 trillion in 2022, contributing 7.3% to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Furthermore, the sector was responsible for employing almost 7 million Filipinos that year.

The IDEA for Creatives edition will onboard 10 early-stage creative startups and enterprises to support and enhance their entrepreneurial capacity and readiness. Under the program, selected startups will participate in various educational workshops aimed at transforming their inventive business concepts into successful enterprises. Each will be paired with experienced mentors and coaches to guide them in their startup journey. The program culminates with a showcase event, where startups can present their ventures to program stakeholders, angel investors, venture capitalists, corporate representatives, and key figures in the ecosystem.

Early-stage startups that are operating in the Philippines with a minimum viable product, registered or in the process of registration to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or DTI, with 60% of its founders Filipino, and with at least two founders committed to the IDEA program, are eligible to apply.

Meanwhile, an initial pool of 10-15 startups will be chosen to participate in the ADVanCE for Creatives. After the preliminary screening, they will be assessed based on organizational capacity, business maturity, and readiness levels. From there, five participating startups will be selected to proceed to the acceleration phase and undergo intensive training based on the specific interventions identified from the needs assessment.

To be eligible, startups should be in their growth and expansion stage and are based in the country with at least two years of operations with revenue, SEC or DTI-registered, with 60% of its founders Filipino, and with at least two founders committed to the ADVanCE program.

DTI welcomes all creative startups within the domains of audiovisual media, digital interactive media, creative services, design, publishing and printed media, performing arts, visual arts, traditional cultural expressions, and cultural sites to apply to the programs.

“We call on all eligible creative startups to seize this unparalleled opportunity. Join us in this endeavor to transform your innovative ideas into successful enterprises and become part of a movement that celebrates and elevates Filipino talent and ingenuity,” Aldaba shares.

The Innovative Startup Act, or RA 11337, is in line with the IDEA and ADVanCE programs, which are designed to support and advance the Philippine startup ecosystem through various perks and initiatives. According to Republic Act No. 11904, also known as the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (PCIDA), which requires the development of a thriving and internationally competitive Philippine creative sector by defending and enhancing their rights and boosting economic capacities, their most recent cohorts will concentrate on the creative industries.

Lifestyle, News

The 59th Anvil Awards saw Home Credit Philippines’ Back-to-School Campaign win silver

Home Credit Philippines’ creative “Home Credit is the Key: Back-to-School (BTS) Campaign” won the coveted Silver Anvil in the Marketing and Brand Communication sub-category of the Public Relations Programs category at the 59th Anvil Awards, which celebrated excellence.

Held on January 31, at the Marriott Grand Ballroom in Newport City, the awards ceremony—known as the ‘Oscars of Public Relations’ in the Philippines—drew attendees from businesses and organizations all around the nation.

Leading consumer credit company Home Credit addressed the difficulties moms in particular experienced during the back-to-school season. In order to manage the growing expenses of education and school supplies, the campaign sought to strengthen moms’ position as the main financial decision-makers and budget managers in their families.

Running from July 1 to September 30, 2023, the “Home Credit is the Key” campaign provided a backup for moms by offering affordable financing options. Home Credit introduced zero-interest payment plans, easing the financial burden on mothers striving to provide their children with the best education. Flexible payment plans were also made available, ensuring that the cost of education could be spread over manageable installments, thus alleviating financial strain.

“We understand the challenges that parents face during the back-to-school season. Our Back-toSchool Campaign aimed to provide not just financial assistance but also peace of mind to mothers who work tirelessly to ensure their children receive a quality education. Winning the Silver Anvil is a testament to the campaign’s impact and the recognition of our Public Relations efforts to support families in this crucial aspect of their lives,” said Ken Lerona, Head of PR, Home Credit Philippines.

The campaign also emphasized maintaining peace of mind for mothers by using Home Credit’s services, allowing them to preserve their savings as a safety net for emergencies or future investments.

The campaign strategically employed public relations and communication tactics to engage and empower its target audience, specifically mothers and their children. Home Credit Philippines collaborated with its agency-on-record, Dugenia, Marayan and Associates Company (DM&A Co.), to implement this compelling initiative.

A key aspect of the campaign’s success was the dissemination of impactful narratives to various media titles, partners, and bloggers. By pitching these powerful stories, the campaign effectively resonated with the intended audience, making their back-to-school shopping experience easier and lighter.

“Working with Home Credit Philippines on this campaign was a rewarding experience. We aimed to not only meet the challenges faced by parents but to exceed expectations in providing practical solutions. The Silver Anvil is a validation of the effectiveness and innovation embedded in our approach,” said Michael Dugenia, Managing Partner of DM&A Co.

Nearly 500 entries were submitted for the Anvil Awards, which are given out by the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP) from more than 100 organizations, including local government entities. New PR Programs categories, including Best Use of Digital, Best Use of Social Media, and Best PR-led Integrated Campaign, were featured at the 59th Anvil Awards.

The Back-to-School Campaign by Home Credit Philippines was one of the best entries, earning it the Silver Anvil and demonstrating the company’s unwavering dedication to providing exceptional community support.

Go to www.homecredit.ph, the official website of Home Credit Philippines, to learn more about the most recent developments. Additionally, you may follow its official profiles on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. To find out more about the most recent promotions and to view what’s new in the Marketplace, customers are also advised to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP). and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) have granted Home Credit Philippines the necessary licenses and supervision.

Health and Wellness, Lifestyle

In Calatagan, Batangas, Nawa Wellness Unveils Premier Wellness Sanctuary—Your Path to Wellness Begins Here.

The much awaited wellness resort Nawa Wellness, which draws its inspiration from traditional Filipino wellness knowledge, is happy to announce that it will begin accepting visitors on January 24, 2024. With its remarkable array of amenities and distinctively Filipino rejuvenating experiences, Nawa Wellness, which is tucked away in the picturesque hamlet of Calatagan, Batangas, is poised to completely transform the wellness landscape in the Philippines.

Nestled in the splendor of the natural world, Nawa Wellness provides a comprehensive approach to well-being by merging age-old wisdom with modern amenities. Among the health activities available to visitors is a large pickleball court, which offers the ideal setting for combining exercise, enjoyment, and friendly rivalry.

Designed to inspire tranquility and relaxation, Nawa Wellness presents an array of wellness facilities that are sure to rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul. Guests can bask in the healing properties of the Himalayan Salt Room, where the unique salt-infused air promotes respiratory health and skin rejuvenation. For an authentically Filipino experience, the traditional Kawa Bath is available, offering a therapeutic soak amidst the calming sounds of nature.

As a treat to pioneer guests during this soft opening phase, Nawa Wellness is pleased to offer an introductory rate of up to 30% off on published rates for a limited time. This exclusive offer invites guests to embark on a truly transformative wellness journey at an exceptional value. Whether seeking a peaceful retreat or an active getaway, Nawa Wellness promises an unforgettable experience tailored to individual needs.

Please visit nawawellness.com to reserve your wellness retreat and for additional information. To receive updates on the newest information, deals, and wellness advice, follow Nawa Wellness on Facebook at facebook.com/nawawellness and Instagram at instagram.com/nawawellness.

The health arm of Araw Hospitality Group, an innovative newcomer to the hospitality sector dedicated to crafting remarkable experiences that captivate and motivate visitors, is called Nawa health. With a diverse portfolio of prosperous hospitality endeavors that includes UNWND Boutique Hotels and Lihim Resorts in El Nido, the firm is always pushing the envelope of what constitutes extraordinary hospitality.

Lifestyle, News

Cebuana Lhuillier: Increasing Filipino Lives for Over 70 Years

The Cebuana Lhuillier corporation, formerly known as Agencia Cebuana, has consistently offered convenience and comfort to Filipinos, particularly with regard to financial accessibility, since its founding in 1953. Over 70 years later, Cebuana Lhuillier is still well-known throughout the nation, having been the primary supplier of microfinancial services and had a significant impact on Filipino culture.

The organization has successfully changed the financial landscape and improved society access to financial products and services in various ways by running close to 3,500 branches around the country.

The organization has transcended conventional corporate limits throughout the years by deliberately positioning itself at the nexus of financial and social impact. A financial institution’s position has been altered as it adopts a multifarious mission that surpasses customary practices. Fundamentally, Cebuana Lhuillier views microfinance as a social purpose as opposed to a numbers-driven enterprise, helping Filipinos at every stage of their journey toward financial wellness.

Moreover, the company has also launched several[KJ5] corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and specialized projects that uplift Filipinos, the company has shown its deepest intentions of helping Filipinos in the many facets of life. Aside from pushing financial wellness, Cebuana Lhuillier also advocates for education and champion sports development.

“We purposely continue to develop new products and services that we know will help uplift lives of Filipinos. We believe that our market is capable of making smart financial decisions if provided access to good products. Aside from that, we also champion education and sports as we believe that these are good tools for people to improve their lives”, says Jean Henri Lhuillier, Cebuana Lhuillier’s President and CEO.

A Proponent of Financial Wellness

According to statistics, the average C and D markets often undergo the different steps of financial wellness journey which starts from bridge financing to saving up, starting a business, getting insured, and learning how to invest. In its more than four decades of operations, Cebuana Lhuillier has evolved and introduced different products that cater to the needs of people in every step of their financial wellness journey.

The first one among these steps is bridge financing, which is something Cebuana Lhuillier has been long addressing through its pawning services. Aside from that, the company also offers loans, as well as money transfer products and services, to help Filipinos get funding that will get them through various scenarios.

The next step of financial wellness highlights the importance of saving up and a chance to safely store money. With this, the company launched the Micro Savings Account through Cebuana Lhuillier Bank, providing Filipinos an affordable and easy way to open an account and save money. Through this, Filipinos may open an account that doesn’t require a maintaining balance for as low as PHP 50 and with just one valid ID.

The next step is to open up a business, which is why Cebuana Lhuillier launched the KaNegosyo Center (KNC) which empowers MSMEs by helping them to start and grow their business. The company also offers Microbiz loans that can serve as capital for budding and existing business ventures.

For people with enough savings and for those who have their own business, there is an important need to be protected. This is where Cebuana Lhuillier Insurance Brokers (CLIB) and its products come in. The exceptional insurance products, such as ProtectMax which provides death benefits, accident or sickness emergency cash assistance, accidental dismemberment and/or disablement Benefit, among others for as low as PHP 50. Another remarkable offering is HealthMax[KJ6] , which has affordable offers that allows Filipinos between 15 and 65 years old to receive an annual maximum benefit of PHP 150,000 for emergency care and hospitalization in over 282 accredited hospitals nationwide.

The company also offers the Miners Protect for miners who were once considered uninsurable due to the risks that come with their job.

Lastly, Cebuana Lhuillier has also paved the way for affordable and valuable investment products that people can go for, especially for those who wish to attain a full circle moment in their financial wellness journey. The company has made it possible through the likes of Cebuana Lhuillier Jewelry, Cebuana Lhuillier Gold, and even through the Atram partnership through the KNC which enables people to invest in stocks for as low as PHP 50.

Through such offerings, Cebuana Lhuillier has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to financial inclusion.

An Advocate of Education

More than just being an established name in the financial space, Cebuana Lhuillier also highlights the importance of education in Filipino lives. Through the Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Inc. (CLFI) and in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), the company opened almost 150 Alternative Learning System (ALS) Centers nationwide with the goal of helping out-of-school youth and adults to complete their education, thus becoming the foundation’s biggest project.

The foundation achieves its goal by holding classes, workshops, and even symposiums. Cebuana Lhuillier’s program also extends its support to ALS programs of different schools by providing buildings, classrooms, and halls through donations. [KJ7]

What sets the Cebuana Lhuillier ALS program apart is that it secures every facility with the latest equipment. The foundation is also hands-on when it comes to the reproduction of reviewers and modules that their students will need. This makes the students under the Cebuana Lhuillier ALS program better equipped.

Aside from that, Cebuana Lhuillier’s ALS program also provides incentives to teachers, so that they can stay motivated to provide the best education for their students.

Over the years, Cebuana Lhuillier has also empowered dedicated students through its scholarship programs.

A Champion of Sports Development

Cebuana Lhuillier and its President and CEO Jean Henri Lhuillier has been supporting sports for more than four decades already, as he started with basketball with successful teams in the Metropolitan Basketball Association, Philippine Basketball League, and the PBA D League. Cebuana Lhuillier and Jean Henri were also at the forefront of the gold medal winning teams from 2003 to 2007.

But it is in softball and tennis that JHL has made the most impact on, until now. They are behind the very successful Philippine softball and tennis programs in the country, focusing both on national team support and grassroots development.

In tennis, Jean Henri Lhuillier was also instrumental in bringing top tennis superstars such as Maria Sharapova, Serena Williams, Andy Murray, among others to the country in 2014 to 2015 as co-owner and team manager of the Manila/Philippine Mavericks. [KJ8]

Cebuana Lhuillier and Jean Henri Lhuillier have been supporting the country’s top players for several years such as Cecil Mamiit, Treat Huey, Eric Taimo, Ruben Gonzales, Katharina Lehnert, and Francis Casey Alcantara among others. They have also organized close to 2000 age group tournaments all over the country for the past two decades. Until now, they are continuing this with Jean Henri as the president of the Unified Tennis Philippines (UTP).

As the eminent president of the Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines (ASAPHIL), Jean Henri and Cebuana Lhuillier have played a pivotal role in guaranteeing triumph in the global softball contests for both the RP Blu Girls and RP Blu Boys. In the last ten years, both teams have placed third on many occasions in Asian softball tournaments and won over ten gold medals in sea games. Their most successful year to date was 2023, when four teams qualified for and participated in the world cup. The Blu Girls and Blu Boys, ranked 14th overall in the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) standings, were the highest-ranked Philippine sports teams in the world.

Growing to Be a Recurrent Part of Filipino Life

With its goal of improving the lives of Filipinos, Cebuana Lhuillier solidifies its place at the forefront of businesses who have made a commitment to changing the game. The organization commits to pursuing its goal of inspiring good change by offering a wide range of services, products, education programs, and sports initiatives that are matched with unshakable dedication.

baka almost four decades lang since Cebuana started in 1987 [KJ1]

mention agencia cebuana [KJ2]

financial access [KJ3]

financial wellness [KJ4]

Moreover… [KJ5]

basta emphasize na iba yung CSR initiatives kaysa sa company mission

provide descirptions for each offer [KJ6]

add miners protect for previously uninsured miners

add incentives to teachers for them to stay motivated and give their best for their students [KJ7]

mauna to [KJ8]

Lifestyle, News

The influence of Cebuana and Jean Henri Lhuillier’s educational activities on improving the lives of Filipinos

Cebuana Lhuillier and Jean Henri Lhuillier remain dedicated to improving the quality of life for Filipinos by means of their significant educational endeavors. These programs, which place a strong emphasis on education, are a revolutionary step toward a better and more educated future for the Philippines.

Cebuana Lhuillier Foundation Inc. (CLFI), through its corporate social responsibility arm, spearheads the effort with its Nationwide Scholarship Program, offering financial assistance to students who are academically outstanding but have limited resources. In addition to the yearly scholarship award, the program gives participants access to extra learning materials and learning events, as well as job prospects in PJ Lhuillier Inc. (PJLI), the parent business of Cebuana Lhuillier. Working with 14 universities around the nation, about 1,000 graduate scholars have been produced so far. In addition to providing opportunities for the scholars, this has a cascading effect as they use education to raise the status of others.

Another of its initiatives is the Alternative Learning Program, which addresses the needs of out-of-school youth and adult learners across the Philippines. These ALS community learning centers (ALS-CLCs) empower individuals to complete basic education, transforming them into competent and productive members of society. Since it was established in 2013, 155 ALS-CLCs have been built across 70 provinces, reaching almost 60,000 ALS learners.

“I have always been a staunch advocate for education. At Cebuana Lhuillier, it is our firm belief that the journey of learning holds the key to transformative change, shaping destinies and creating a profound impact on individuals. Through our initiatives and programs, we strive to improve lives and contribute to the growth of a country built on the foundations of knowledge and empowerment,” said Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier.

A shining example of success is Atty. Pia Faustino, a Ka-Cebuana who has been with the company for over 20 years now. Faustino was a CLFI scholar during her undergraduate years. Upon completing her degree, she received a job offer as the Administrative Assistant in the Legal Services Group (LSG) of PJLI. It was within this role that she discovered her passion for law, and with the unwavering support of her colleagues and bosses, she decided to pursue further studies.

Embracing the challenge, Faustino embarked on her remarkable journey through law school and in 2023, her dedication and hard work culminated in passing the Bar, earning her esteemed title of a lawyer.

“I’m very grateful to the Lhuillier family and all LSG Group Heads. Everyone has been so supportive, even my colleagues. Just last year, I passed the bar. Law school was not a walk in the park, I had my ups and downs, but I was determined to finish it and to pass the bar. Now, just fresh from passing the bar, I still crave learning and opportunities. I hope and pray to become a good lawyer,” said Faustino.

The journey of Faustino from scholarship recipient to successful lawyer is a prime example of the transforming power of educational support and the growth prospects offered by Cebuana Lhuillier and Jean Henri Lhuillier.

Beyond the programs themselves, Cebuana and Jean Henri Lhuillier’s aim for educational empowerment is reflected in their continued leadership of significant initiatives. It is evident in the lives it has transformed, the communities it has strengthened, and the hope it holds for the Filipino people’s future.

Lifestyle

For its tenth anniversary, Home Credit Philippines treats 14,000 workers to a fantastical trip at Enchanted Kingdom and other venues

In honor of its tenth anniversary, Home Credit Philippines (HCPH) recently threw joyous gatherings for its 14,000 staff members. For the first time in the history of the top consumer financing organization, parties for its employees, their families, and friends were planned nationally at a variety of resorts and convention centers.

Over 6,700 workers from Metro Manila and the neighboring provinces were given to a fantastic day at the Enchanted Kingdom to assure optimum enjoyment. For the duration of the event, the theme park was closed for two days. Two standard day passes, pocket money, a complimentary souvenir photo, and a transportation subsidy were all offered to the staff. Each employee was additionally permitted to host a maximum of five visitors.

In keeping with its motto, “No small roles. Everyone is important,” the remaining staff members of HCPH’s thirty local offices throughout twelve regions celebrated by taking part in a variety of outdoor and aquatic activities at adjacent resorts and convention centers.

“The Home Credit family has grown significantly since our first year of operation here in the Philippines. We started with 158 employees and have now reached an impressive number of 14,000 in just 10 years. With this expansion, stronger employee engagement is needed to ensure that our workforce is in their best mental and physical condition. We recognize the valuable role our employees play in the company’s success. As a response, we provide them with opportunities to achieve personal victories and focus on other aspects of their lives, including their mental health. This work break, in celebration of our 10th anniversary, is just one of our projects to promote work-life balance,” said Alpha Omega Aquino, HCPH Chief People Officer.

Go to www.homecredit.ph, the official website of Home Credit Philippines, to remain informed about its most recent products and promos. Additionally, you may follow its official profiles on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. It is also recommended that customers download the My Home Credit App from Google Play to find out more about the most recent promotions and to check out what’s new atShopping Mall Philippines.

Accredited by theSecurities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Home Credit Philippines is a finance company.

Lifestyle, News

Schneider Electric is acknowledged as a Circularity Lighthouse by the World Economic Forum

Schneider Electric,a pioneer in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, said today that it has been named one of the three global  Circularity Lighthouses in the built environment by World Economic Forum and McKinsey.

This new title honors innovative circularity solutions that exhibit creativity, significant value and impact, and scale maturity. An impartial group of specialists from business, academia, and public life chose the new lighthouses.

Residential and commercial infrastructure are included in the World Economic Forum’s definition of the built environment. Taken together, these account for  39% of energy-related CO2 emissions, 33% of material consumption and waste generation, and 25% of land system change. Businesses can exchange ideas and knowledge with one another through the Forum’s Circular Lighthouse network, thereby accelerating action and scaling for increased resource efficiency.

Schneider Electric was recognized by the World Economic Forum and McKinsey for its end-to-end circular approach across a broad portfolio of its energy and building automation solutions. Through eco- design, waste-to-resources sites, and a global network of refurbishment centers, Schneider Electric has avoided approximately 513 million tons of CO2 to customers since 2017.

The company also uses 27% green materials across its products with the ambition to reach 50% by 2025. 22% of Schneider Electric’s product families have a circularity option, and more than half of Schneider Electric’s manufacturing sites recover more than 99% of waste.

“Circular business models offer compelling sustainability and commercial benefits,” said Peter Herweck, Schneider Electric’s Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to the opportunities this new Circularity Lighthouse network offers to learn, share, and accelerate action.”

One example is how Schneider Electric gives its MasterPact MTZ circuit breakers a second life. Refurbished at the MasterTech plant in France, these circuit breakers are collected from customers at the end of life, disassembled, diagnosed, upgraded and tested before being put back on the market.

At the recent World Economic Forum’s annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, Herweck also urged that greater deployment of existing technologies is needed to keep climate change from spiraling out of control.

“With energy accounting for 80% of carbon emissions, the energy transition is central to decarbonization. The potential of AI is currently capturing everyone’s attention. But let’s not forget that existing technologies – both renewable energy generation and digital and electrification tools that lower energy demand by rendering sites and operations far more energy efficient – can sharply reduce emissions now. There’s no time to wait for tomorrow’s solutions when much more can be achieved with what we have today,” he added.

IMPACT Supply Chain Program

Schneider Electric’s IMPACT Supply Chain program includes supply chain design and circular business concepts. This is the next phase of the company’s supply chain transformation, with the goal of improving the environment and customer experience. Key pillars of it are:

  • People – Schneider’s people are empowered to innovate and make a positive impact for customers every day.
  • Planet – Schneider Electric is building a sustainable, responsible, and net-zero ready supply chain.
  • Customers – Schneider Electric’s reliable supply chain delivers industry-leading quality.
  • Performance – Schneider Electric drives performance through advanced technology, smart and unified processes, regional ecosystems, and collaborative design.