Multi-sector representatives attend ARISE Philippines’ first Annual General Assembly in 2025.

On January 27, the ARISE Secretariat headquarters in MOA Square, Mall of Asia Complex, hosted the first annual general meeting for 2025 of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies (ARISE) Philippines, one of the nation’s premier resilience networks. ARISE Philippines, which now has 156 private sector enterprises, civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and academic institutions as members, is well-positioned to make a big difference in disaster resilience initiatives across the country.

The meeting’s subject, “Catalyzing Progress for a Resilient and Sustainable Future towards ARISE 2030,” was based on the statement, “Innovate, Integrate, Elevate,” which exhorted participants to adopt novel strategies, work together across industries, and raise the bar for disaster resilience standards.

ARISE Philippines Board Members (from left): Dr. Ma. Teresita Medado, Sylvestre Barrameda Jr., Austere Panadero, ARISE Philippines Co-Chair Engr. Liza Silerio, ARISE Global Board Member Vice Admiral (VADM) Alexander Pama, Raymond Rufino, and Michael Rellosa (not in photo: Rosemarie Rafael and Jessica Bianca Sy)

The Co-Chair representing the private sector, Engr. Liza Silerio, welcomed the collective and expressed her gratitude for the network’s role in promoting community resilience and sustainable progress. For the public sector, Office of Civil Defense Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno emphasized the importance of engineering solutions in disaster preparedness and highlighted the critical role of committed private sector leaders in building a more resilient nation.

Chief of Office UNDRR Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific Marco Toscano-Rivalta, in a video message, commended ARISE Philippines for its outstanding contributions to disaster risk reduction. “I extend my profound gratitude for ARISE Philippines’ exemplary leadership and contributions,” he stated. He referenced the Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction held in Manila last October 2024, saying, “Your efforts were instrumental to the event’s success. ARISE has showcased the power of public-private partnerships and set the benchmark for other regions to follow.”

Member companies pledge their participation in ARISE Philippines’ seven new programs.

ARISE Global Board Member Vice Admiral (VADM) Alexander Pama, ret., was present to bolster the local network and guarantee its support to the international alliance. A highlight of the meeting was the unveiling of seven ARISE Philippines Materials and Knowledge products by the ARISE Board of Directors. These resources are designed to support members in implementing resilience-building initiatives. The meeting also included a call to action for members to actively participate in seven new programs to be initiated this year.

Mr. Hans Sy, ARISE Philippines Chairperson for the Private Sector, addresses members and observers.

Mr. Hans Sy, Chairperson for the Private Sector at ARISE Philippines, urged the members and observers in attendance to act, work together, and remain together in his closing remarks. In order to build a stronger and more resilient Philippines for future generations, he called on everyone to cooperate in order to “co-create bridges for resilience.”

The ARISE Philippines network’s secretariat office, SM Prime Holdings, promotes a corporate culture that is resilient to both natural and man-made hazards. Visit www.arise.ph or send an email to [email protected] for additional information.

Welcome to the Golden Seagulls Hotel, which opened its doors in September 2024 and boasts a prime location close to Manila Bay. Our seaview balcony offers stunning sunset views, adding to the tranquility and memorability of your stay.

Our hotel has 75 well furnished rooms that can accommodate a variety of visitors: 

• King Rooms – Perfect for couples (2 pax)
• Twin Rooms – Ideal for small groups (4 pax)
• Executive Rooms – Designed for business or leisure travelers (4 pax)
• Family Rooms – Spacious accommodations for big groups (up to 6 pax)

We provide complimentary airport shuttle service for pick-up and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free arrival and departure.

Facilities & Amenities:

• 8th Floor – Pool, Gym, and Restaurant with stunning views
• Ground Floor – Spa, Salon, Restaurant, and Convenience Store
• Nearby Establishments – Just a minute’s walk to additional 24-hour restaurants and convenience stores to meet your needs.

Prime Location

Golden Seagulls Hotel is conveniently located near top entertainment and shopping destinations:

• Okada Manila – For those who enjoy casino gaming and events.
• Solaire Resort – Another premium casino and entertainment hub.
• Ayala Malls & SM Mall of Asia – Just a short drive for shopping and dining.
• Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) – Only 15-20 minutes away, perfect for travelers.

Comfort, convenience, and a memorable experience by Manila Bay are provided by the Golden Seagulls Hotel, whether you’re here on business, vacation, or with your family.

We are excited to have you visit us!

*Contributed photos by Red Mier

Put the Philippine International Furniture Show (PIFS) and Interior & Design Manila (IDM) on your calendars. They will take place at the SMX Convention Center in Manila from March 6–8, 2025. Under the theme “Philippines: An Archipelago of Design,” this thrilling back-to-back event will highlight the finest of Filipino design, honoring the rich diversity and creativity of the country’s furnishings and décor.

A gorgeous selection of lighting, furniture, and home accents that combine classic workmanship with contemporary innovation will be on display at the event. The Philippines is a major player in the global design landscape, and visitors can anticipate seeing high-quality, sustainable designs from both up-and-coming and renowned Filipino designers.

The event will also include a Designer Awards ceremony, a pavilion by famous architect Anton Mendoza, and art pieces that highlight the value of local creativity. The MVMT Design Competition, which promotes new, modern viewpoints on Filipino design, is one of the seminars and contests in which attendees can take part.

To guarantee your place, pre-register for free at PIFS Registration (https://pifs.ph/registration) before March 4. It costs P300 to register in person.

Visit www.pifs.ph or www.interioranddesignmanila.com for additional information.

L-R: DCWD Environment and Watershed Protection Division Manager Anji Laura A. Grecia-Lorona, DCWD Community Relations and External Affairs Department Manager Jovana Cresta T. Duhaylungsod, DCWD General Manager Mildred G. Aviles, CPA, DM-HRM, Alsons Dev Vice President & General Manager Eric de la Costa, Alsons Dev Corporate Communications Manager Margarita Rey-Gross, and Alcantara Foundation Executive Director Ryan Vidanes formalize their partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement signing, signifying Alsons Dev’s commitment to adopt a five-hectare area in the Mt. Tipolog-Tamugan Watershed.

On February 13, 2025, a Memorandum of Agreement was signed at the Alsons Dev Poblacion Market Central Sales Showroom, formally establishing the collaboration between Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) and the Davao City Water District (DCWD) for the Adopt-A-Site project.

The signing was led by Ryan Vidanes, Executive Director of the Alcantara Foundation, the CSR division of the Alcantara Group; Alsons Dev Vice President & General Manager Eric de la Costa; Alsons Dev Corporate Communications Manager Margarita Rey-Gross; DCWD General Manager Mildred G. Aviles, CPA, DM-HRM; DCWD Environment and Watershed Protection Division Manager Anji Laura A. Grecia-Lorona; and Department Manager Jovana Cresta T. Duhaylungsod.

Through this partnership, Alsons Dev will adopt and rehabilitate five hectares of land in the Mt. Tipolog-Tamugan Watershed as part of DCWD’s Integrated Watershed Management Program. This initiative supports the protection of this critical water source through sustained reforestation and maintenance efforts over the next five years.

In order to ensure a sustainable water supply for future generations, the Adopt-A-Site project promotes stakeholder involvement in watershed protection. Alsons Dev’s involvement demonstrates the business’s enduring dedication to sustainable development and environmental care.

One of Davao’s top real estate developers, Alsons Dev, is dedicated to building thriving, sustainable communities. Go to https://alsonsdev.com/ to learn more about Alsons Dev.

All it takes is a tap to have your next fantastic meal! Now available digitally, the new Bistro BFF Card grants you immediate access to special offers at more than 20 Bistro Group locations. Downloading the app will allow you to take advantage of eating benefits you were unaware you required, eliminating the need to carry a real card.

There are many different cuisines to choose from. There is a dish that will appeal to you no matter what you want to eat. Pizza, pasta, dim sum, burgers, steaks, and ribs? All-day breakfast, sushi, seafood, paella? Maybe buffalo wings or Korean BBQ?

With the new BFF Virtual Card, you can also take advantage of incredible and exclusive benefits that enhance the enjoyment of every meal.

Exclusive Perks for BFF Members

✔ Huge Discounts – Enjoy 30% off every Monday and 20% off from Tuesday to Sunday at all Bistro Group restaurants.
✔ ₱1,000 Dining Voucher – Can be used at any Bistro restaurant of your choice.
✔ Exclusive First Access – Be the first to enjoy special limited-time offers.
✔ Bistro Delivers – Order your favorites online via the Bistro Delivers app with a 20% discount.
✔ Kids Can Eat Free – Bring the whole family because kids can dine for free (maximum of 2 kids, entrée purchase required)                            

✔ Complimentary Tea or Coffee – Enjoy a free tea or coffee each time you dine in.

✔ Bistro Delivers –  Order your favorites online via bistrodelivers.com.ph with a 20% discount

Additionally, if you would like to eat your favorite bistro fare at home or at work, you may purchase online and get 20% off when you use your Bistro BFF app—a discount available just to BFF members who have the BFF app!

Make the switch to digital now! You can buy your BFF Card at any bistro restaurant or download it from the App Store or Google Play (App Store: https://2me.ph/QKOQQO, Google Play Store: https://2me.ph/OYWGEB).

Landers Superstore Chief Transformation Officer Bill Cummings turns over the key to a brand-new Porsche 911 Carrera S to Ms. Ingrid Rose Panuncialman, a lucky winner from Landers Alabang, during the Grand Shop & Win Raffle Awarding Ceremony.

During the Shop & Win Raffle Grand Awarding Ceremony, Landers Superstore, the nation’s fastest-growing membership shopping destination, gave two lucky members brand-new automobiles, making shopping even more rewarding. An exciting highlight of the brand’s eighth-anniversary celebration, the event took place at Landers Arca South on February 13, 2025.

The day is full of amusement and fun as we come to celebrate an important milestone with Landers. A lot of exciting prizes and discoveries have come our way, and I am so delighted to have witnessed it all. We are also thrilled to know who the fortunate individuals are that have won their huge prize for being a loyal customer.

Landers Superstore Chief Transformation Officer Bill Cummings (far left) hands over the key to a brand-new Kia Sonet to Ms. Joy Felycitas Alzate of Landers Davao (3rd from left), alongside Kia Philippines executives Ms. Marikit Ligaya Bati, Assistant Brand Marketing Manager (2nd from left), and Ms. Celine Acasio, Fleet and Special Sales Manager (far right), at the Grand Shop & Win Raffle Awarding Ceremony.

Joy Felycitas Alzate from Landers Davao got a chic Kia Sonet, while Ingrid Rose Panuncialman from Landers Alabang took home the top prize—a lavish Porsche 911 Carrera S—out of millions of eager competitors. When Kia Philippines officials joined Landers’ Chief Transformation Officer Bill Cummings in presenting the keys for the Kia Sonet award, both recipients were beaming.

From Grocery Runs to Life-Changing Rides

Winning a high-performance car for simply shopping felt surreal for Ingrid Rose Panuncialman, who described the moment as “a dream come true.” She added, “Landers has always given us great deals, but I never expected to win a Porsche just by being a member.”

For Joy Felycitas Alzate, the news came as a delightful surprise. As a loyal Landers member since the Davao branch opened, she shared, “I joined just for fun. I never thought I’d actually win a car!”

3 Million Entries, 64 Winners, Unlimited Excitement

The Shop & Win Raffle, which ran from June to December 2024, attracted a record-breaking 3 million entries from Landers members across its 14 stores nationwide. Aside from the two car winners, 64 other lucky participants received exciting prizes such as:

• 1-Year Supply of Landers Caltex Fuel
• 1-Year Supply of Landers Central Pizza
• iPads, Gift Certificates, Maya Credits, and more

This overwhelming response reflects the excitement and trust Landers has built with its growing 2-million-strong membership community.

Membership Means More—And It’s Just the Beginning

With the winners

The raffle’s success demonstrates Landers Superstore’s commitment to giving each member a sense of worth. Bill Cummings stated,  “We want our members to know that when they choose Landers, they’re choosing more than just great products—they’re choosing a rewarding experience.”

Given the amazing attendance at the Shop & Win Raffle, Landers anticipates even more surprises and fulfilling events in the future.

Go to www.landers.ph or follow Landers Superstore on social media to be informed about future promotions and exclusive member benefits.

• Schneider Electric is the first-ever corporation to top Corporate Knights Global 100 twice.
• This marks the company’s 14^th consecutive year on the list, achieving a top 10 ranking for the 7th time.  
• The global recognition highlights Schneider Electric’s outstanding efforts in advancing sustainability and innovation in emerging markets worldwide, including the Philippines.

Leading energy management and automation digital transformation leader Schneider Electric was named the World’s Most Sustainable Corporation for 2025 by Corporate Knights. The company is the first to ever rank first in the Global 100 twice, having done so in 2021. Schneider’s long standing dedication to providing the greatest environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives in promoting sustainability and innovation throughout emerging markets globally, including the Philippines, is recognized by this international accolade.

“For many years now, sustainability has been at the heart of what Schneider Electric does. For an IMPACT company it’s more than just a corporate goal, it’s the driving force that shapes our business decisions and inspires our employees,” said Olivier Blum, Schneider Electric’s Chief Executive Officer. “This second title as the World’s Most Sustainable Corporation from Corporate Knights, alongside other key ESG recognitions, is testimony to the valuable, long-term positive impact we have.” 

Schneider Electric’s exceptional sustainability efforts, such as encouraging gender diversity in leadership, creating cutting-edge solutions for energy efficiency, electrification, and decarbonization, and linking executive pay incentives to its sustainability goals, earned it the top spot in this year’s Global 100 index. The company also received high marks for making large expenditures in sustainable R&D and successfully separating energy use and carbon emissions from commercial expansion.

This global commitment to sustainability is also mirrored in Schneider Electric’s impactful initiatives in the Philippines. In recent years, the company has demonstrated leadership in sustainable development practices across the country, including being named the most Gender-Inclusive Workplace by the 2024 United Nations Regional Asia-Pacific Women’s Empowerment Principles Awards for its efforts in advancing gender equality and inclusion in the workplace, all while delivering energy-efficient solutions through the expansion of its Smart Distribution Center in Cavite.

With 98% of Philippine firms prioritizing sustainability according to the company’s Green Impact Gap Survey 2024, Schneider Electric continuously supports local companies by advancing energy-efficient technologies, digitalization, and solutions for supply volatility and price fluctuations.

“Digitalization is becoming increasingly crucial for Filipino businesses. While challenges still remain, we are making significant strides,” said Ireen Catane, Country President of Schneider Electric Philippines. “Now, being recognized as the most sustainable corporation in the world twice in a row, it is high time to further accelerate efforts in transforming emerging markets in the Philippines into sustainable landscapes that drive progress and innovation.”

Corporate Knights’ Global 100 index uses publicly available data to score businesses according to sustainability. For 14 years running, Schneider Electric has been on the list, and it has placed in the top 10 seven times, which is a record for its category. The Schneider Sustainability Impact Program, which tracks ESG progress toward 2025 goals, began and ended with these recognitions.

• Schneider Electric donated state-of-the-art solutions for energy management and facility security.
• This symbolic act demonstrates Schneider Electric’s ability to mobilize resources for a multi-secular historic monument.
• The success of this project is a result of ingenious solutions used to address logistics and complex constraints encountered on site.

Schneider Electric contributed, by means of donations, to the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. The donated solutions have made it possible to secure and monitor the site’s electrical facilities. 

The restoration of Paris’s Notre Dame Cathedral was recently aided by donations from Schneider Electric, a leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation. The site’s electrical facilities can now be secured and monitored thanks to the donated solutions. Incorporating 21st century technology into a cathedral that marks a pinnacle of medieval art and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991, the monument’s energy consumption may be managed and optimized via the company’s Building Management System (BMS).

The fire that severely damaged the cathedral on April 15, 2019, sparked an incredible wave of solidarity that Schneider Electric wanted to be a part of. “It’s an obvious move for Schneider Electric to support actions of this type for symbolic and prestigious sites, as we have done in the past for the Comédie Française state theater and the Antarctic station,” highlights Gilles Vermot Desroches, Director of Citizenship, and Institutional Affairs at Schneider Electric.

Innovations for the Future

Schneider Electric provided expertise, products, and solutions thanks to a donation agreement. As such, the Group supplied all the equipment required to supply power to the site and for its security (20 kV HV cells, a 20 kV/410V 1250 kVA transformer, general and divisional electrical switchboards, inverters, safety lighting, devices etc.), as well as the tools for the technical management of the building, making it possible to monitor the functioning of the network and control its power consumption (automatic control systems, sensors, controllers, communication buses etc.).

In addition to the equipment, Schneider Electric is carrying out some of the maintenance of the electrical distribution equipment, providing some of the engineering, studies, commissioning, and programming of the installed systems, as well as the training of future users.

The old electrical installation was inoperable due to the fire and without electricity, reopening was impossible. The new network ensures the distribution and security of the energy supply, incorporating innovative solutions and cutting-edge technologies that optimize the management of its electricity consumption and help ensure the safety of the cathedral.

A Shared Commitment

The project team had to deal with a large number of technical issues demanding ingenuity and preparation.

One such issue was the delivery and installation in early 2024 of the connected TRIHAL transformer, a key element of the cathedral’s power supply. Delivered by truck and then raised onto the site above the construction area, this 3.2-ton block was then lowered via a hoist into position in the basement of the presbytery. A specific study had to be carried out for the lifting operation.

Installing the high-voltage substation in an underground vaulted cellar with considerable access and space constraints was also an issue resolved with customized equipment and support.

“This is a project for which the logistics have been quite tricky and required excellent coordination with the other players on site,” said Cédric Larcher, Regional Manager of the Electrical Distribution Application Center at Schneider Electric France, responsible for management, performance, and monitoring on site.

Around 60 Schneider Electric workers—from factory workers to the site’s network designers—contributed knowledge and skills as part of a skills transfer program in addition to providing infrastructure. As part of its assistance, Schneider Electric also trained partner companies, including the Val-de-Marne-based panel builder Ateliers Electriques de France to install the main low-voltage cabinet, the Seine-Maritime-based FBS Electricité to install the high-voltage substation, the Eure-based ERM to create specific support structures, and the Val-de-Marne-based Transport Avex to perform the incredibly complex handling operations in the presbytery basement. Visit this website to find out more.

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