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Lifestyle, News, Tech

Auto Tech and Association for Mobility Inc. Declares New Leadership Group at AIM-DBI Roundtable ATM in Makati


Auto Tech and Mobility Association Officers: Mr. Mark Saberola, Chairman and President, Ms. Odessa Escartin, Treasurer, and Atty. Marlon Valderama, Corporate Secretary.

At the highly anticipated Roundtable ATM [AutoTech and Mobility] event held at the Asian Institute of Management – Dado Banatao Incubator (AIM-DBI), Makati City, The Auto Tech and Mobility Association Inc. (ATMAI), a non-stock, non-profit organization dedicated to pioneering advancements in the auto tech and mobility sectors, proudly introduced its new slate of officers.

David Almarinez from PeekUp and Alan Cheah from Carsome delighted the visitors with their engaging keynote addresses at the most recent roundtable. A significant milestone for ATMAI was also reached at the event when they signed a formal agreement to collaborate with Asia Events Group. This collaboration exemplifies ATMAI’s commitment to fostering innovation and growth in the automotive technology and mobility sectors and paves the way for the upcoming Future of Automotive conference, which is slated to take place in Pasay City. The event served as a great platform for introducing ATMAI’s new leadership team, who are equipped to lead the company into a bright future.

Mr. Mark Saberola, a seasoned auto industry professional with over two decades of experience, was elected as President and Chairman of ATMAI. A diverse group of officers who each bring a wealth of knowledge and commitment to the association complement his leadership, to wit:

Ms. Odessa Escartin, Treasurer, brings her insightful experience from the event management and insurtech industries to oversee the association’s financial health.

Atty. Marlon Valderrama, Corporate Secretary, a startup lawyer and a legal tech founder, lends his extensive legal expertise to ensure governance and compliance.

This dynamic team is further supported by a board of directors comprised of Mr. Jayvee De Leon of Forent, Ms. Olive Escartin of Oseas Tech, Mr. Kevin Abalos of AutoServed, Mr. Zes Martinez of Fame Technologies and Mr. Homer Nievera of Negosentro Group, all distinguished professionals from various sectors within the auto tech and mobility industry, all committed to driving forward the association’s mission.

“The introduction of our new officers at the Roundtable ATM marks a historic moment for our association, signaling the beginning of a new era of leadership committed to pioneering innovation in the auto tech and mobility space.” said President Mark Saberola. “With the collective expertise and vision of our leadership team, ATMAI is poised to tackle the challenges and seize the opportunities of the future, making significant contributions to the industry.”

The Roundtable ATM event provided an engaging platform for discussions on the latest trends, challenges, and advancements in the auto tech and mobility sectors, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving the industry forward.

In addition to expressing its gratitude to the Roundtable ATM participants, ATMAI urges all parties involved in the automotive technology and mobility sectors to collaborate with it in its efforts to innovate and promote sustainable mobility and technological excellence in the future.

Go to www.autotechmobility.org to learn more about ATMAI and how to get involved.

Lifestyle, News

Come to the Adobo SheCreative Network Conference this year, Women Arise, to find out more about ensuring that creativity has a sustainable future!

Visit the adobo SheCreative Conference 2024: Forging A Sustainable Future for Creativity to witness the power of creativity and teamwork. There, “Women Arise” to discuss a sustainable future for the creative industry. As committed to innovation as our speakers and attendees, we have partnered with Future Proof, RMN, Cignal TV, Shangri-La The Fort, PANA, ASEAN SOGIE Caucus, and Asia Society Philippines to bring you this important event.

Attend the 2024 #adoboSheCreative Conference presented by adobo magazine to find out how we can create a creative future that is sustainable. Women leaders are rising up and reinventing tomorrow in a world where optimism is much needed in our creative sectors.

Happening this March 26, 2024, 2PM at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila, learn what these women have said, done, and promised towards forging a more sustainable future for our creative industries. Let them spark those same fires within you. Now, more than ever, the future is female.

With a line up of fabulous speakers, we are thrilled to announce the following women:

  • Loren Legarda – Keynote Speaker – Senator, Philippines Pro Tempore
  • Rhea Matute – Executive Director, DTI – Design Center of the Philippines
  • Lisa Collins – Director of Experience Platform, Accenture
  • Peachy Pacquing – Managing Director, Hyper Island Asia
  • Pia Colby – Vice President of Marketing, Globe Telecom
  • Jane Jimenez-Basas – President and CEO, Cignal TV
  • Lui Castaneda – PR and Influencer Lead, Unilever Beauty and Wellbeing
  • Merlee Jayme – Founder and Chairmom, The Misfits Camp

Join together with women who are paving the way for a more promising and sustainable future and benefit from their ideas and leadership. Tickets are available for purchase at https://adoboshecreative.helixpay.ph.

Lifestyle, News

GS1 Philippines begins historic transition from barcode to QR code to support the digital transformation of the local retail business

In a time when customers need immediate, clear information about what they’ve bought, the supply chain sector is going through a radical change. According to 77% of retail workers surveyed in Zebra Technologies’ 2023 Global Shopper Study, consumers today are more aware than ever before, indicating a well-educated and discriminating consumer base.

Businesses are redesigning their goods and supply chains to deliver more transparency, resilience, and sustainability in response to these changing consumer expectations. The survey also shows that 7% of businesses are using business analytics and intelligence now or in the future as part of their supply chain management plans.

Responding to these industry challenges, GS1 Philippines, the leading organization on local barcode standards, has announced the start of the adoption of the 2D barcode in the Philippines aimed to further enhance operational efficiency in the supply chain industry and bridge better product engagement between businesses and consumers in the advent of digital labeling.

The 2D barcode, most popularly known as “QR code,” leverages web technologies and the current barcode system to store extensive product information in just one scan. Through the QR codes, brand owners and retailers can easily interact with consumers and shoppers by providing in-depth information on their physical products. By scanning the QR code with a smartphone, buyers can instantly see ingredients, allergens, recipes, rewards, and promotions, as well as brand-authorized details about where the item was manufactured, facts about sustainable sourcing, guidance on recycling, easy ways to re-order and other kinds of information.

The QR code also allows retailers and supermarkets to ensure product safety, guarantee product freshness, and reduce food waste. Additionally, it enables regulators to check a product’s sustainable characteristics.

Moreover, the migration to the 2D barcodes improves operational efficiency in the supply chain industries. In addition to holding GS1’s global trade item number found in the traditional 1D barcodes, the QR codes can now store essential information, such as a product’s batch or lot number, serial number, and expiry date. With access to crucial data, all stakeholders in the supply chain can boost transparency, improve inventory management, enable traceability and sustainability initiatives, and simplify recall and return processes.

“In the face of rapid technological advancements, it’s critical that we adapt to empower the supply chain industry further. The introduction of QR code technology serves as Pandora’s box, opening infinite possibilities for brands and retailers to make their operations more efficient and improve customer engagement. GS1 Philippines members pave the way in this groundbreaking transition to more efficient and robust supply chain operations,” GS1 Philippines President Roberto “Bobby” Claudio said.

The announcement aligns with the global commemoration of GS1 Global’s 50th anniversary of the barcode’s invention, celebrating a legacy of innovation in business solutions through web technologies and GS1 Standards.

By 2027, GS1 Philippines hopes to have industry ready for the switch to 2D barcodes. By then, 2D barcodes enabled by GS1 can be read and processed by every retail point-of-sale scanner in the world, and widespread global brand owner implementation has taken place.

By the end of 2024, GS1 Philippines, which currently serves over 5,000 shops, hopes to have reached 30,000 establishments across the country.

Visit https://www.gs1ph.org/ or their Facebook page to discover the limitless possibilities of a single scan with GS1’s 2D barcode technology.

Lifestyle, News

Art in the Park is back, and BPI is giving credit cardholders access to exclusive benefits


Artwork by Demi Padua, this year’s Art in The Park’s featured artist, for BPI. Artwork will be printed on fans exclusively distributed to BPI clients at the fair.
 

The highly anticipated yearly art expo, Art in the Park, is returning for its 18th year, offering an eclectic display of Filipino ingenuity and a special chance for art fans to immerse themselves in a lively display of talent. This year’s event, which is organized by Philippine Art Events, Inc., brings together over 60 exhibitors from independent art spaces, galleries, art collectives, and student organizations, providing a vibrant forum for interaction and involvement.

Art in the Park, which will be held on March 17, 2024, at Jaime Velasquez Park, Salcedo Village in Makati, provides a wide selection of artworks at a price cap of P70,000, enabling attendees to purchase sought-after pieces at reasonable costs. Through its all-inclusive approach, Art in the Park hopes to promote a closer relationship between artists and the community as well as democratize art appreciation.

One of the featured artists at this year’s event is Demi Padua, a native of Calapan, Oriental Mindoro, whose journey in artistry began at a young age. Drawing inspiration from childhood imagination, everyday experiences, and the desire to express his true identity, Demi’s paintings and sculptures captivate viewers with their Trompe L’oeil style, blending theatrical production elements with visual arts. 

As part of its commitment to making art accessible to all, Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is offering exclusive privileges to its credit cardholders during Art in the Park 2024. BPI Credit Cardholders can enjoy up to 6 months Real 0% Special Installment Plan (SIP) for a minimum purchase of P3,000 at the fair. Additionally, BPI offers a Buy Now Pay 3 months Later option and a 100% Bonus Madness Limit on installment purchases for qualified cardholders, providing a convenient and affordable way to acquire exclusive art pieces. 

Art in the Park is another day of celebration for art enthusiasts to foster a deeper appreciation on Filipino’s creativity and continues to be a platform to make art more accessible to the public.  

Art enthusiasts of all ages should look forward to an engaging experience from Art in the Park in 2024. Don’t pass up the chance to interact with the dynamic Filipino art scene and discover the variety of talents on display at this year’s festival.

Visit https://www.bpi.com.ph/personal/rewards-and-promotions/promos/art-in-the-park-2024 for additional details about Art in the Park and its exhibitors, or follow us on our official social media pages.

Food, Lifestyle, News

Adopting a sustainable work environment

As per its commitments, Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PPCPI) keeps creating initiatives and strategies to help its staff members understand and accept the importance of sustainability in their daily lives. In keeping with the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN, PCPPI, the sole manufacturer and distributor of beloved brands like Pepsi, Mountain Dew, and Gatorade, holds itself responsible to three main pillars: inclusive business, water stewardship, and circular economy.

“Today’s consumers exercise a keener sense of discernment, particularly when it relates to the values of the companies they support,” said Atty. Carina S. Bayon, PCPPI’s Chief Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Officer. “For PCPPI, sustainability has always been at the heart of our operations. From encouraging process and technological innovation to employee education and engagement, we make a conscious effort to create positive impact on society, the environment, and the communities where we operate,” she added.

Caring for the environment remains a top priority for PCPPI, and programs that encourage employees to adopt mindful habits is key. For example, waste segregation is practiced across its facilities as part of its guidelines. There are separate bins for recyclable and non-recyclable waste materials to allow the proper handling and recycling of items that may still be processed for alternative use.

Select PCPPI offices also utilize LED and motion sensor lights, as they consume less energy compared to regular incandescent lights. Through the annual Working Environment Measurement (a sampling method for measuring work environment or conditions) review conducted by its Environment, Health, Safety, and Security (EHSS) team, management gets to ensure that all of PCPPI offices and production facilities observe optimal working conditions for employee well-being and operational productivity.

PCPPI employees are also encouraged to bring their own reusable utensils at work, like stainless utensils and bamboo tumblers. Water refilling stations are also set up to minimize the use of plastic cups when employees refresh themselves throughout the day. Going digital also allows employees to reduce paper use, as emails, conferencing platforms, and other network-based channels facilitating information exchange and collaboration across PCPPI’s offices nationwide.

Atty. Bayon shared that aside from saving on expenses, implementing sustainability-focused policies in the workplace can contribute to employee health and well-being, as well as a shared sense of purpose. “Achieving sustainability is a shared responsibility—there’s no single team or department that carries it forward. It is the promise of creating a better future for generations to come drives us at PCPPI to champion this cause as we practice responsible operations,” she said.

Well-known beverage brands like Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Tropicana, Lipton Iced Tea, Sting, Premier, Chum Churum Soonhari, and Milkis are exclusively manufactured and distributed in the Philippines by PCPPI. To learn more about PCPPI, go to www.pepsiphilippines.com.   

Lifestyle, News

Angkas Wins People Over with a Funny App Update Announcement


Watch the full ad here: https://fb.watch/qKt3lDbW3X/

The well-known motorbike taxi app Angkas used an innovative approach to promote their most recent update: a heartfelt and humorous video ad. The video, which debuted on March 9th and stars CEO George Royeca, is receiving a lot of good feedback online.

Royeca is the source of the allure. He welcomes a low-budget, PSA-type production with purposefully embarrassing scenes. His self-deprecating humor lends him an immediate sense of relatability. As a lighthearted homage to the app’s upgrades, the video even adopts the appearance of a vintage DVD player, replete with a bouncing Angkas logo.

But it’s not all about laughs. Royeca acknowledges user feedback and openly discusses the app’s earlier limitations. This transparency builds trust with Angkas customers.  His passion for the app’s potential to improve commutes and livelihoods is also evident, making him appear invested in the Angkas community.

The main takeaway from the video is that the new app provides a much better experience. Faster booking, a more user-friendly interface, better location monitoring, and even cashless payment options are what customers can anticipate.

Angkas created an educational and engaging film by fusing comedy, honesty, and sincere excitement. They effectively conveyed the advantages of the app and gave visitors a favorable image of George Royeca, their CEO. Both Angkas and their consumers benefit from it. Are you prepared to see the update for yourself? Get the latest version of Angkas app now! For iPhone users, it is available on the Apple App Store; for Android users, it is available on the Google Play Store. Search for the one whose logo has glitter on it!

Food, News

Yakult Philippines, Inc. and Republic Cement have partnered

Through co-processing, Republic Cement and Yakult Philippines Incorporated (YPI) hope to divert qualifying residual trash from landfills and waterways. It is one of YPI’s strategies for abiding with and promoting the Philippine Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation. From left to right in the picture are Mr. Yasuyuki Yufune, the Executive Vice President of YPI, and Atty. Vice President of YPI Michael Eric Ong, President of YPI Alberto Dy Sun, and Director of Ecoloop Angela Edralin-Valencia

Lifestyle, News

foodpanda logistics recognizes Women’s History Month by livelihood initiative for women in Ka-Panda

Women on Wheels initiative aims to foster women empowerment

In honor of Women’s Month, foodpanda logistics is providing livelihood packages and training to women in their Ka-panda delivery fleet.

The program, known as Ka-pandaBIZ: Women on Wheels (WoW), was formally introduced on International Women’s Day. The recipients were chosen to receive business funding valued at Php 100,000 as well as training to launch their own small businesses.

Foodpanda Logistics Philippines’ Rider Experience Lead, Ron Sanders, stressed the value of helping their delivery partners—especially the women Ka-pandas—achieve success and better living conditions.

Sanders stated that as of 2023, the number of women in the growing fleet of foodpanda logistics delivery partners has increased by thrice, demonstrating the real benefits of this approach.

“With Ka-pandaBIZ: WoW, we are not just celebrating women, we are actively working to enhance their productivity, income, and living standards,” he remarked, highlighting the program’s commitment to inclusive business practices and women’s empowerment.

The beneficiaries will undergo online training sessions, mentoring, on-ground retail store visits, and catch-ups with mentors to be spearheaded by foodpanda logistics’ official partner organization, HAPINOY.

Hapinoy’s Mark Ruiz shared that this initiative will be anchored under their training and mentoring program, HapiSkwela, designed for sari-sari store owners. This program provides education, business tools, personal development training, and values formation. “Learning from all these aspects will serve as the foundation of their journey as happy, growth-oriented, and socially responsible microentrepreneurs,” he explained.

Ruiz added that they are delighted to be chosen as a partner in this endeavor. “foodpanda logistics shares our commitment to upskilling and providing sustainable livelihood to these women.”

Supporting livelihood for women as Ka-panda delivery partners

According to the November 2023 Labor Force Survey (LFS), there has been a decrease in the participation of women in the labor force this year, dropping from 57.8% to 55.4%. Factors such as family responsibilities, schooling, and age-related considerations have influenced this decline, resulting in a lower participation rate compared to men, which stands at 75%.

In response, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has set a target under the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) to increase female labor force participation from 2023 to 2028 by creating more economic opportunities for women.

Acknowledging this disparity, Sanders emphasized the significance of offering equal opportunities for women to become part of their delivery fleet. “We extend a warm invitation to all women interested in working as delivery partners at foodpanda logistics, and we’re fully committed to supporting and guiding them every step of the way,” he affirmed.

Ka-pandaBIZ: a livelihood program for Ka-pandas

A key element of foodpanda logistics’ larger livelihood program, Ka-pandaBIZ, which aims to provide delivery partners and their families with sustainable economic prospects, is the WoW initiative.

After completing the Ka-pandaBIZ program with success, three Ka-pandas were given starting funding and in-depth business training for their sari-sari establishments. Following a rigorous training program where they gained expertise in a range of business management domains, such as product marketing, store setting, financial administration, and business expansion, they graduated last year.

“Similiar to these Ka-pandas who have also undergone an extensive training curriculum, these women are poised to become thriving micro-entrepreneurs, and we hope they will also drive positive change within their communities,” Sanders said.

Lifestyle, News

Schneider Electric highlights the necessity for digital transformation in the PH hospitality business by stating that two out of three passengers prefer green hotels


During the Hotel + Accommodation Industry Summit Philippines 2024 held at Edsa Shangri-La Manila, Schneider Electric’s Segment Head of East Asia and Japan Madhu Menon told leaders and experts of the hospitality and accommodation sector that the future of PH hotels is through the application of integrated digital solutions in their operations. 
 

At the recent Hotel + Accommodation Industry Summit Philippines 2024, Schneider Electric—a leader in energy management and digital automation—emphasized the importance of sustainability in the hotel and lodging sector, noting that two out of every three travelers now favor establishments that use green practices.

In line with the first UNWTO World Tourism Barometer of the Year, which predicts that international travel will rise by 2% over 2019 to pre-pandemic levels in 2024, there is an increasing demand for sustainable businesses.

Schneider Electric’s Segment Head of East Asia and Japan Madhu Menon explained that digital transformation could enable the industry to continue offering comfort and convenience to travelers while reducing its energy consumption.

“Travelers are increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint,” Menon said as he emphasized that “this shift in priorities underscores the need for hotels to embrace innovative solutions that seamlessly integrate sustainability and efficiency into their operations.” He added that hotels consume 50% more energy than similar-sized residential buildings despite having only 55% occupancy rates on average.

This integration can be accomplished with end-to-end digital solutions that Schneider Electric offers through EcoStruxure™ IT, the company’s Internet of Things (IoT) platform that provides energy management and automation solutions. 

Specifically, this technology features the Asset Advisor and Building Advisor, offering cloud-based analytics to monitor and control their energy use in real time, identify savings opportunities, and reduce their overall carbon footprint. Meanwhile, its Building Operation and Power Monitoring Expert provides data-driven insights to inform hotels about possible problems and diagnostics and determine areas for maintenance– decreasing downtime and guest complaints.

Schneider Electric identified four focus areas where end-to-end solutions could be used to future-proof hotels in the Philippines: lowering carbon footprint through the use of greener energy sources; increasing staff productivity and operational efficiency; guaranteeing continuity and agility in operations; and providing outstanding experiences for both guests and staff.

Digitalization and sustainability are becoming necessities as the Philippine hotel sector prepares for a tourist boom. In order to help hotels transform into greener, more efficient, and future-proof businesses, Schneider Electric is prepared to work with them as a partner.

Food, Lifestyle, News

500 Coca-Cola outlets will join Tindahan Extra Mile as the company increases its recycling footprint in Bacolod


Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez, BEST President Isabelita Mercado, Coca-Cola Philippines Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability Sr. Director Ivanna Dela Torre, and Coca-Cola Philippines Sr. Director for Franchise Operations Pablo Medina signed an agreement launching the Tindahan Extra Mile program in Bacolod City.

The Tindahan Extra Mile (TEM): Balik PET Bottle Program was introduced in Bacolod City by Coca-Cola Philippines in collaboration with Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies, Inc. (BEST) and the Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners (PASCO).

Customers in Bacolod City can take greater action regarding recycling and contribute to the advancement of a circular economy for plastic packaging by enlisting 500 sari-sari stores and carinderias as new collecting partners.

Albee Benitez, the mayor of Bacolod City, praised the effort and underlined the value of collaborating with businesses, organizations, social entrepreneurs, and non-governmental organizations to provide opportunities that have a lasting impact and can improve people’s lives.

“The Tindahan Extra Mile Program is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By mobilizing our local entrepreneurs and fostering community engagement, we are taking significant strides towards a greener and more sustainable Bacolod,” he said.

“As we launch the Tindahan Extra Mile Program, we are not merely initiating a program; we are igniting a movement,” Mayor Albee emphasized. “Together with BENRO, BEST, Coca-Cola Philippines, and our dedicated micro-retailers, we have the power to effect real change and preserve our environment for future generations,” he added.

How does TEM benefit micro-retailers?

Through Tindahan Extra Mile, participating micro-retailers will receive financial incentives by collecting PET plastic bottles. The program encourages the community to partake in a shared responsibility towards a cleaner Bacolod by providing convenient collection points in front of sari-sari stores and carinderias. Residents can easily drop off their empty bottles for recycling. Store owners will accrue environmental points proportional to the bottles they collect, redeemable for cash or products through the bXTRA app.


Coca-Cola Philippines, BEST, and the City Government of Bacolod engage micro-retailers
to join Tindahan Extra Mile and set up PET bottle recycling bins in their stores

“Investing in the Tindahan Extra Mile program aligns perfectly with Coca-Cola Philippines’ goal to collect and recycle the equivalent of every bottle we sell in the country. By empowering women micro-retailers, who make up a significant portion of sari-sari stores and carinderia owners in the Philippines, TEM creates a convenient and accessible network for consumers to recycle,” said Pablo Medina, Senior Director for Franchise Operations at Coca-Cola Philippines. “This program not only helps foster environmental responsibility but also provides opportunities for financial independence and growth for these female entrepreneurs, driving positive change within their communities.”
 

How can a micro-retailer become a TEM member?


Sari-sari store and carinderia owners in Bacolod City sign up to become members
of the Tindahan Extra Mile Program.
 

Any sari-sari store and carinderia owner can become a member of the Tindahan Extra Mile in three easy steps.  

Step 1: On the Tindahan Extra Mile Facebook page, sign up on the bXTRA website using your email address.

Step 2: Collect empty PET plastic bottles and bring them to the nearest TEM Trash to Cashback Collection Hub.

Step 3: Exchange your PET bottles for a TEM kit and card to start earning environmental points.

Watch here to learn more about Tindahan Extra Mile.

BEST Senior Vice President Jan Vincent Mercado urges micro-retailers to join TEM as

members. “In partnership with Coca-Cola Philippines, our aim is to empower micro- entrepreneurs to become environmental stewards,” he said. “We acknowledge their significance and influence within communities, emphasizing their potential to encourage community members to segregate plastic waste and participate in recycling endeavors,” Mercado said.

Empowering micro-retailers for a World Without Waste

To enable more micro-retailers and inspire collective action towards plastic bottle recycling, Coca-Cola Philippines will bring the Tindahan Extra Mile Program to other areas such as Cebu and Cagayan de Oro in 2024.

Coca-Cola Philippines introduced “May Ikabobote Pa,” a consumer engagement initiative, last year in an effort to inform, uplift, and encourage more people to recycle their old bottles and cans.

The company has launched new bottles that are entirely composed of recycled PET plastic in an effort to promote the circularity of plastic packaging. Wilkins Pure 500 ml, Sprite 500 ml, and Coca-Cola Original 190 ml are currently carrying this innovative container. Since these bottles may be recycled numerous times, less virgin plastic is produced and utilized overall.

Through the Coca-Cola Sustainability Hub, customers can find the closest collection locations and learn more about Coca-Cola Philippines’ recycling programs.