With a shared vision of enhancing global connectivity for Philippine businesses, telecommunications and ICT company Eastern Communications, Amsterdam Internet Exchange (AMS-IX), HGC Global Communications, and ST Telemedia Global Data Centres Philippines (STT GDC Philippines) held an official launch event and contract signing ceremony on December 2, 2024, at New World Hotel Makati.
Along with international firms HGC and STT GDC Philippines, Eastern Communications is the first Philippine telecom carrier to collaborate with AMS-IX, one of the biggest peering hubs in the world. The collaboration intends to give Philippine businesses better connectivity and increased access to international Internet Protocol (IP) traffic by establishing quicker and more secure connections to global data networks.
[From L to R:] Eastern Communications Co-Coordinators Jaeson Evangelista and Atty. Aileen Regio, AMS-IX International Partnership Director Onno Bos, and HGC Philippines President Michael De Castro.
[From L to R] TeamAsia Marketing Manager Erika de Leon, Eastern Communications Co-Coordinators Jaeson Evangelista and Atty. Aileen Regio, and TeamAsia Associate Director Tins Flores, presenting the “Dream Kits” donated to the My Dream In A Shoebox Program.
Eastern Communications, the leading telecommunications provider in the Philippines, is advancing sustainability through a number of Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) projects. Eastern Communications actively works to make a good impact that complies with international standards and promotes the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2023–2028, from protecting coastal environments to improving impoverished areas.
Environmental Initiatives: Nurturing Nature for Future Generations
To support the typhoon-prone country, Eastern continues its environmental stewardship through various initiatives. Building on its previous partnerships, including tree-planting activities with the Tuguegarao One Million Trees Movement in collaboration with former team Eastern Communications Perlas Spikers, the company continues to champion ecological conservation this year with coastal rehabilitation initiatives with Project Pristine for Love Boracay 2024 and Metro Divers’ Code Blue 2024 underwater clean-up drive.
One of its upcoming initiatives is the mangrove planting initiative, to be conducted in December in partnership with the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI) One To Tree program. Mangroves, which protect coastlines from erosion, serve as nurseries for marine life, and play an essential role in carbon sequestration, are critical to combating climate change. To begin its long-term mangrove reforestation initiatives, Eastern kicks this off by planting 1,000 mangroves in Brgy. Lumaniag, Municipality of Lian, Batangas. Through this, Eastern will contribute to enhancing and nurturing these vital ecosystems and mitigating the impact of climate-related issues in vulnerable coastal areas.
Photo of mangrove-planting site in Lian, Batangas
Social Initiatives: Empowering the Next Generation
Eastern Communications’ has long believed in the importance of supporting the next generation and furthering the quality of their education especially in underserved communities. Recently, Eastern partnered with the “My Dream in a Shoebox” (MDIAS) campaign to help bridge the educational gap faced by underprivileged children. With the help of Eastern employee volunteers, this initiative focused on providing children with essential learning materials and opportunities for growth.
”Thank you to the generous hearts of our Eastern Communications partners. You inspire us by helping us make bigger dreams come true,” said Bea Lim, CEO and President of TeamAsia.
The partnership with MDIAS began in 2023, and continued this year with 300 Dream Kits gifted to beneficiaries of the Payatas Orione Foundation Inc. in Quezon City. Each kit contained school supplies, supporting these children in their academic journey and empowering them with resources to pursue their dreams. Now in its 16th year, MDIAS has impacted countless young lives by offering educational materials, funding assistance, and access to technology, aligning with Eastern Communications’ advocacy for inclusive and equitable quality education.
Eastern Communications held its My Dream in a Shoebox gift-giving session with beneficiaries of the Payatas Orione Foundation Inc. in Quezon City.
According to the World Bank, nine out of ten Filipino children at age 10 are unable to read and comprehend a basic, age-appropriate text. Furthermore, Filipino students ranked among the lowest globally in mathematics, reading, and science, as shown by the 2022 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). The Philippines placed 77th out of 81 countries, with performance falling below the global average across all subjects.
“By providing these Dream Kits, we’re helping break down the barriers of limited resources, opening doors for children to continue their educational journey and reach for their dreams,” said Jed Estanislao, Eastern Communications Head of Marketing and Customer Experience.
Discover fundraising and outreach programs to help make a brighter reality for more and more learners in the Philippines at www.shoeboxcampaign.teamasia.com.
In addition to its efforts to cultivate the talent of the Filipino youth, Eastern also launched a digital art contest during October to November. The competition, organized in partnership with Wacom Philippines, invited young artists and creatives from Baguio City and the Cordillera region to showcase their unique skills and creativity. With the theme ‘Philippines: A Connected Digital Nation,’ the contest challenged participants to express the connectedness of Filipinos in the modern age through the use of digital art.
“We celebrate these talented artists and their inspiring work. It’s our hope that these awards not only recognize their exceptional creativity but also fuel their passion for years to come,” shared Estanislao.
Governance Initiatives: Promoting Transparency and Ethical Standards
Good governance lies at the core of Eastern Communications’ operational practices. The company is committed to maintaining high standards of transparency, accountability, and ethical practices, which are essential for building trust with customers and partners, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
The company takes pride in being the first telecommunications company to be ISO certified. It recently renewed its ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 27001:2013 certifications, affirming its dedication to maintaining high standards of service excellence and best industry-standard practices. These certifications highlight Eastern’s top-tier service solutions for clients, setting the benchmark for quality and excellence in the telco industry.
Professional growth and employee well-being are given equal importance by Eastern Communications, which funds training initiatives that give staff members the know-how to further the business’s sustainability goals. Eastern Communications develops a workforce that not only propels economic success but also supports moral behavior by fostering a culture of integrity and learning.
Eastern Communications is a perfect example of how corporate responsibility and sustainability can coexist with business expansion as the organization develops further in the digital era. By doing this, they not only advance their goal but also help create a more inclusive and sustainable future for the Philippines and establish a model for other businesses to follow. Eastern can be found at www.eastern.com.ph.
Taiwan Excellence is showing #GreenLove by partnering with Manila Water Foundation (MWF) to boost the promotion of La Mesa Ecopark (LME), the ‘last ecological frontier’ of Metro Manila.
As part of its efforts on environmental sustainability, Taiwan Excellence will engage in information, education, and communication support to Manila Water Foundation for the promotion of the 33 -hectare LME Park in Greater Lagro, Quezon City, which combines conservation and tourism.
Taiwan Excellence noted that LME is part of the La Mesa Watershed which is an important water source for Metro Manila and the Greater Manila Area.
“The vital aspect of our #GreenLove campaign is our sincere love for the environment by preserving and protecting our natural resources. This is our action in support of a healthier environment. We are giving future generations a greener and healthier Earth,” says Dir. Alex Lai of Taiwan Trade Center, Manila.
Dir. Lai also said that their #GreenLove campaign with MWF underscores their appreciation for LME’s rich biodiversity.
The LME is where flora, fauna, and communities interact in ecological harmony.
“La Mesa Ecopark is considered one of the last lungs of Metro Manila because of its lush green forest that helps produce oxygen and aid in improving the city’s air quality, as well as preserve our water source. We are happy to work with Taiwan Excellence through their #GreenLove campaign. We hope that this will inspire others to do their part to help the environment,” the MWF said.
For the #GreenLove campaign, Taiwan Excellence will be collaborating with actress, singer, and social media influencer Kim Molina.
Kim will feature the LME in her upcoming vlog.
Taiwan Excellence has been committed to promoting green sustainability. Recently they held the “Go Green with Taiwan” project resulting in 17 semifinalists from 12 countries, including the Philippines. This global project encourages individuals, social institutions, and non-profit governmental organizations to submit ideas for a better world using Taiwanese green products and solutions.
The top three winners will be awarded a total of USD 20,000, with the results being announced on December 11, 2024.
To know more about #GreenLove campaign follow the Taiwan Excellence’s social media accounts.
Even though Halloween has passed, you should continue to be alert for “spooky” situations since scammers are continuously looking for new ways to trick and exploit potential victims.
The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is reminding its esteemed customers to always be on the lookout for cybercrimes and to maintain good hygiene this November.
“The safety of our clients is our priority, that’s why BPI is doing its best to enhance its online security measures continuously. At the same time, we encourage our clients to ‘Maging Listo, Huwag Magpaloko’ because cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. With cybersecurity hygiene practices, people can avoid falling victim to cyber crimes such as hacking, phishing, and identity theft,” said Jonathan Paz, BPI Data Protection Officer and Enterprise Information Security Officer.
BPI Branch Lobby
Here are some fun tips to remember to avoid being “haunted” by scammers:
Witchcraft for Passwords – Cast a spell on your passwords by mixing letters, numbers, and symbols that are hard to decipher. Remember, a strong password decreases the risks of getting hacked and your data being compromised.
Haunted Wi-Fi – Always check the security of your own Wi-Fi connection. Make sure it is password-protected and not easily accessible to anyone unseen.
Don’t Invite Unwanted Guests – Just like you wouldn’t want random spirits to come uninvited, don’t accept friend and/or follow requests from strangers. It is best to keep your social media circle small and tight rather than having multiple random acquaintances.
Privacy Settings: Your Cloak of Invisibility – Make sure to utilize those privacy settings as a good invisibility cloak. You can also explore the advanced privacy settings option for added protection. It is important to keep your data hidden from prying eyes.
BPI strives to deliver safer and better banking experiences by collaborating with its customers. Go to www.bpi.com.ph to find out more about BPI’s online security protocols and how you may further defend yourself from cyberattacks.
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 orwebsite to find out more about the features of the IELTS Ready Premium.
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.
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.
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.
Ajinomoto leads forum focused on health, nutrition, and sustainability with the future champions of our nation
L-R: Sarah Coe, Redscope CEO, Morexette Erram, CBN Sr. Multi-media Reporter, Cheryl de la Victoria, DA Chief of Regional Agricultural and Fisheries Information Section, Dr. Paulyn Jean Ubial, Redscope TWG Chairperson, Koichi Ozaki, President of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC), Ma. Victoria Abrera, DENR Regional Director for Central Visayas, Atty. Salustiano Jimenez, DepEd 7 Regional Director, Mika Makino, APC Director of Sales, Marketing and Public Relations, Ernie Carlos, APC Chief Sustainability Officer, and Madelin Dofiles, PFT, APC General Manager for Corporate Planning and Public Relations
When Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) successfully held its Eat Well, Live Well: 2024 Youth Summit at the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel in Cebu City, it was a day of empowerment, education, and dedication to sustainability and health. This year’s summit, which built on the success of the previous one, brought together more than 150 passionate young Filipinos, educators, and activists for a day of wellness, sustainable living, and nutrition.
The 2024 Youth Summit is a component of APC’s continuous effort to provide the future generation with the skills and information necessary to improve their communities and the environment. In order to promote a culture of sustainability and wellness among Gen Z attendees, the event was jam-packed with interactive workshops, thought-provoking presentations, and cooperative activities.
Empowering Cebu’s Youth for a Healthier Future
APC Group President Koichi Ozaki delivered a remarkable message to the youth and shared Ajinomoto’s vision for a healthier, more sustainable Philippines. “The mission of APC is to contribute to food and wellness to better lives of the future and we take it upon us to inspire the younger generations to become champions of a healthy and sustainable future,” said Mr. Ozaki. “Ajinomoto is here to make your eating experience happy, healthy and satisfying.”
Throughout the day, participants engaged in panel discussions with experts from the Department of Agriculture (DA), represented by Ms. Cheryl de la Victoria, Chief of Regional Agricultural and Fisheries Information Section and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), represented by Ms. Maria Victoria V. Abrera, Regional Director for Central Visayas, exploring key topics such as sustainable nutrition, waste reduction, and wellness practices. Through these dialogues, APC aimed to deepen the youth’s understanding of how small daily actions can lead to significant positive changes for both health and the environment.
Interactive Activities and Youth-Led Solutions
The summit featured hands-on activities, allowing attendees to actively participate in brainstorming solutions for real-world sustainability challenges. In one of the day’s highlights, a Youth-Led Output Activity encouraged participants to develop actionable ideas for living healthier and more eco-conscious lives. Groups collaborated to present innovative approaches, from reducing food waste to promoting planet-based diets, which encourage the increase in consumption of vegetables as reflected in Ajinomoto’s “Eat Well, Live Well” philosophy.
Another successful run of Eat Well, Live Well 2024 Youth Summit by Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation!
The breakout room sessions also gave opportunities for all student attendees to gain first-hand learning experience about the science behind MSG plus witness how vegetables can be turned into a delicious dish using almost all its parts with nearly zero-waste. The best part, they all got to taste it.
A ceremonial pledge concluded the event, with all participants vowing to implement the lessons learned and advocate for healthier, more sustainable lifestyles within their communities.
A Continued Commitment to Health and Sustainability
Ajinomoto’s global goal of increasing healthy life expectancy and lowering environmental impact by 50% by 2030 is in line with the company’s Eat Well, Live Well: 2024 Youth Summit. APC Group continues to motivate young Filipinos to take the initiative and lead in environmental and health stewardship through significant events like this one.
APC Group is also bringing the Aji-Ginisa® I Love Veggie-licious School Caravan to Cebu, at the Lahug Elementary School, to demonstrate the force behind Ajinomoto’s advocacy for a better and healthier future for all Filipino children. This will help to continue educating and motivating the next generation about the value of eating a healthy diet.
Outstanding Corporate Governance. Atty. Vem King, Jollibee Group’s Associate General Counsel, EMEAA, Corporate & Commercial Global, and Legal Business Partner Global and Philippines, (2nd from left), receives the Golden Arrow Award on behalf of the Company during the recently held ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard Awards by the Institute of Corporate Directors. This is the third consecutive year that the Jollibee Group has been cited for its strong corporate governance practices.
For the third year in a row, the Jollibee Group has received the Institute of Corporate Directors’ (ICD) 1-Golden Arrow Recognition, enhancing its standing as a company with good governance, accountability, and transparency. The honor, which was given out at the most recent Golden Arrow Awards, demonstrates the business’s ongoing dedication to maintaining the greatest standards of moral leadership and corporate responsibility.
“Receiving this award for the third year in a row reflects the Jollibee Group’s dedication to doing business the right way—responsibly, transparently, and with integrity. It also affirms our commitment to corporate governance and sustainability, as we continue our journey towards becoming one of the top five restaurant companies in the world,” said Jollibee Group Global Chief Legal, Ethics and Compliance Officer Atty. Valerie Feria Amante.
The ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS), which measures adherence to corporate governance principles, is used by the Golden Arrow Awards to assess publicly traded corporations within the region. Businesses that receive a score of 80 points or more, such as Jollibee Group, are granted the coveted Golden Arrow, which denotes their adherence to both international best practices and the Philippine Code of Corporate Governance.
The ACGS evaluates corporate governance performance in a number of important categories, including transparency, fair treatment of stakeholders, shareholder rights, and the board’s function in strategic leadership and supervision. By highlighting well-run businesses, the scorecard seeks to improve governance standards in the Philippines and draw in long-term investment.
