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 Philippine Marketing Association, Asia Marketing Federation Highlight AI and Sustainability in Landmark Summit
 

The 4th World Marketing Forum and the 53rd National Marketing Conference, organized by the  Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) in partnership with the Asia Marketing Federation (AMF), brought together experts, innovators, and leaders in global marketing in Manila. The four-day summit, which took place from November 5 to 8, covered important subjects that will influence marketing in the future, such as sustainability, artificial intelligence, and next-generation consumer interaction tactics.

The gathering, which drew over 2,000 people, included representatives from 19 nations, including Bangladesh, Thailand, Indonesia, and Japan. It highlighted cooperation to address regional and global issues and highlighted Manila’s position as a center for regional thought leadership in marketing.

The summit began with an exclusive Ambassador’s Night at Casa Buenas, Newport World Resorts, where PMA President Kathy Mercado welcomed international delegates and set the stage for discussions on marketing’s evolving role in driving economic growth and innovation across Asia. The evening laid the groundwork for the insights and connections that would unfold over the next three days.

On November 6, the World Marketing Forum took center stage at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, capturing attention with a Star Wars-themed presentation. The forum featured global marketing luminaries, including Philip Kotler, who joined virtually to discuss strategies for resilience and adaptation in a rapidly changing business environment. AMF Founder Hermawan Kartajaya shared insights on emerging trends, while speakers from PwC , Nielsen, and StoryIQ explored the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and data-driven marketing in shaping consumer insights and engagement.

The National Marketing Conference,  held on November 7 under the theme “Marketing Wars 6.0 and Beyond,” brought the challenges of the modern marketing landscape into focus. Fine Hygienics CEO James Michael Lafferty stressed the importance of foundational marketing principles, urging marketers to prioritize storytelling and authenticity over fleeting digital trends. Entrepreneur RJ Ledesma shared strategies for building resilience in volatile markets, while a panel discussion led by executives from Chowking and CIBO Philippines examined strategies for connecting with Gen Z and Gen Alpha consumers.

Beyond the conference sessions, the summit also highlighted the Philippines’ cultural richness. Delegates participated in a Hop-On-Hop-Off tour of Manila organized by the Department of Tourism and capped the day with a gala night at Goldenberg Mansion. The event featured traditional Filipino performances and a tour of Malacañang Palace, offering international participants a glimpse into the country’s history and heritage.

The summit concluded on November 8 with the Asian Marketing Excellence Awards at the Hilton Grand Bar, recognizing outstanding achievements in marketing across the region. Thailand’s Minor Food Group was awarded the Marketing 3.0 Award, while Pyathai-Paolo Group was recognized as Marketing Company of the Year. Individual awards honored emerging talents and innovators, highlighting the diverse contributions shaping the future of marketing across Asia.

PMA Director Albet Buddahim underscored the relevance of the summit in addressing the challenges faced by marketers today. “This event tackled the wars marketers face—balancing generational shifts, navigating the explosion of digital platforms, and choosing which battles to prioritize. It provided tools and insights to navigate these complexities successfully,” he said.

PMA Executive Vice President Michelle Ballesteros emphasized the summit’s focus on sustainability and its role in fostering responsible marketing. “This gathering reinforces our commitment to marketing for good—advocating for strategies that not only drive business growth but also protect the planet and improve lives,” she said.

By addressing the most pressing issues in marketing, the 4th World Marketing Forum and the 53rd National Marketing Conference highlighted the growing influence of Asia in shaping the future of the industry. Through participation from marketing leaders, global companies, and cultural showcases, the event underscored Manila’s pivotal role as a hub for collaboration and innovation, providing actionable insights for marketers navigating rapidly shifting dynamics and setting a benchmark for industry events across the region.

The Asia Center for Small Business-Philippines (ACSB), the Chamber of Real Estate & Builders’ Associations, Inc. (CREBA), the Philippine Youth Entrepreneurs Association (PYEA), the AI Global Council, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry – National Capital Region (PCCI-NCR), Global Compact Network Philippines (GCNP), the International Council for Small Business (ICSB), and the Malaysia Chamber of Commerce, Inc. are among the network of affiliated organizations that are supporting the event. (MCCI), Philippine Plastics Industry Association Inc. (PPIAI), Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP), and Out-of-Home Advertising Association of the Philippines (OHAAP).

The venue partner is Newport World Resorts, while the supporting partners are Katapult Digital, AQA Advertising, and Exlink Management & Marketing Services Corporation. The PR and communications partners included ZOE Broadcasting Network, Shoppertainment LIVE, Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment, and Uniquecorn Strategies PR.

With a stellar roster of prominent individuals and companies, the 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Awards 2024 press conference just wrapped off with tremendous success. The event, which took place at Winford Resort and Casino Manila Ballroom Halls 1-3 on December 8, 2024, set the tone for the highly anticipated awards ceremony that will also be held there on the same day.

The excellence and accomplishments of Southeast Asia’s top professionals and companies were showcased at this esteemed event. Lae Mañego, known as Asia’s Queen of Fire, Derwen Lipardo of Gown and Events Management by Touting, and a representative from JP’s Catering Services were among the notable guests. MJ-AM Trading, led by Jaclyn Kate Tolete; Kylledmed Philippines, represented by Dr. Patrick Saburit; Viomix Philippines, led by Fatima Gallos; Genuine Diamonds PH, led by Mariel Nicole Santiago; and Better Boneless, led by Cheska Costes, were among the prestigious companies that had strong representation. The appearance of Atty. added considerably more importance to the occasion. The Premier Achiever Inspiring Filipina Lawyer is Persida V. Rueda-Acosta.  

The press conference also highlighted the invaluable support of this year’s sponsors, who have helped bring this momentous event to life. Sponsors included *JP Catering Services*(Golden Awardee) recognized as the Premier Business Remarkable Events Catering Services; *Genuine Diamonds PH*, recognized as the Premier Business Outstanding Natural Diamond Jewelry Provider; *Sheanne Roll Up Door Construction Services* (Golden Awardee), acknowledged as the Premier Business Excellent Roll-Up Door Fabrication Company; *Salvacion Paparon* (Golden Achiever), honored as the Premier Achiever Outstanding Roll-Up Door Business Owner; *Intele Builders and Development Corporation*, distinguished as the Premier Business Outstanding Telecommunication Company; *Lucky GHL Advertising* (Golden Awardee), awarded as the Premier Business Marketing Service of the Year; *JFBV* (Golden Awardee), celebrated for being the Premier Business Remarkable Advertising of the Year;  *NWOW International Trading Corp.*, hailed as the Premier Business Outstanding No.1 Electric Vehicle/E-bike Brand; *Capitol Medical Center Inc.*, acknowledged as the Premier Outstanding Healthcare Provider; *Viomix Philippines*, recognized for its Premier Korean Coffee Supplies. And *Kylledmed Philippines*, recognized for being the Premier Business Trusted Healthcare Products Supplier.

The event celebrated an impressive selection of remarkable achievers and businesses across various categories. Among the distinguished award recipients are: Salvacion Paparon (Golden Achiever), Wej Cudiamat (Golden Achiever), Carlo Lorenzo, Jamin Lim (Golden Achiever), Braggy Braganza (Golden Achiever), Lae Manego (Golden Achiever), Dennis Antennor Jr. (Golden Achiever), Annabelle Surara (Golden Achiever), Shirley B. Belangel CPA, MBA (Golden Achiever), D. Edgard A. Cabangon, Conrado Cagas Tacgos Jr. (Golden Achiever), Bon Jheo Exconde (Golden Achiever), Janice Delima, Dr. Elva Evasco-Auza, DJ Mama Colleen, DJ Kuya Machete, Edwin Lisa, Freddie Aguilar, Richard James B. Merk, Conelen Cariño, Ravve Jay Prevendido (Golden Achiever) , Mherie Vic Palomo Prevendido (Golden Achiever), Jos Garcia , Ira Patricia Malaluan , Julia Mendoza , Usec. Robert Rivera, Nerlisa Elyza Francisco Rivera, Jeff Madarang , Rogelio Constantino Medina ,Audrey Gorriceta (Golden Achiever) ,Hagibis , Jane Darren Genobisa ,Cindy Madduma (Golden Achiever) , Marc Logan, Keyrol Cabuso (Golden Achiever), Dr. Patrick Saburit, Catherine Veluz-Zeta, Hon. Saleha Pangarungan Sacar, Earlo Bringas, Gilbert de los Santos, Jigo Postolero, William Jones , Angelo Estera, Hazel May E. Baliguian, LPT, MAED CULED, Miles Ocampo, Vhong Navarro, Jhong Hilario, General Rhodel Orden Sermonia, Isko Moreno, Ambet R. Nabus, Dominic Almelor, Gretchen Fullido, Dr. Jesus Recasata, Jr., M.D. FPAPRAS, Andrew de Real, MC & Lassy, Michael Pangilinan, Bugoy Drilon, Daryl Ong, Jona , Atasha Muhlach, Andres Muhlach, Niño Myrrh C. Tarinay a.k.a NMTV, Ishaku Ishaya Monday aka Kuya Isaac Sabaw, Hon. Datu Kasan A. Karon Jr., Chief Persida V. Rueda-Acosta (Golden Achiever), Alexander John Lainez Fong, Marian Rivera, Dr. Sheilah A. Recasata, MD, Jomerle Evardone Matutino, Jeffrey Dy, Charlomagne Arceta & Senator Christopher Bong Go. NWOW International Trading Corp., JP Catering Services (Golden Awardee), Sheanne Roll Up Door Construction Services (Golden Awardee), Intele Builders and Development Corporation, Lucky GHL Advertising (Golden Awardee), JFBV (Golden Awardee),  Matty’s Themed Events, Sapporo Products Inc, 97.9 Home Radio(Golden Awardee), Aliw Channel 23(Golden Awardee), DWIZ-AM(Golden Awardee), Lagniappe Printshop(Golden Awardee), Eyeleen Hair and Make up by: Aileen Sebua(Golden Awardee), Gown and Events Management by Touting(Golden Awardee), Media House Express(Golden Awardee), Jam Lim Enterprises(Golden Awardee), Cave Beach Resort(Golden Awardee), Alegre de Pilipinas, The Metropolista (Golden Awardee), Rise and Shine Pilipinas(Golden Awardee), Light TV(Golden Awardee), RCP Ritmo Tambore, Win Radio, Bhylinn’s Modern Fashion, Edwin Lisa Brows and Aesthetics, Venice Handicrafts Wooden Kiddie Stools and Furniture, Links Digital (Golden Awardee), Through The Glass Creatives (Golden Awardee), Densol’s Catering, Kylledmed Philippines, Joyice Philippines, DWAN 1206 AM, Top 5 Mga Kwentong Marc Logan, Genuine Diamonds PH, SCPM Trading, Kherk Roldan Whitelabel SEO Solutions, MJ-AM TRADING, Better Boneless, Finca Engineering Services, The Brewed Buddies coffee & Tea Creations, Altech Autogate Int. Philippines Inc., SMRD Credit Collection Services, Faces and Curves, G-Film Rental, Capitol Medical Center Inc, Phisavong World Travel and Tours, Viomix Philippines, Philippines Graphic & BusinessMirror.

The press conference garnered coverage from various media partners, including prominent publications and networks such as Malaya Business Insight, Business Mirror, The Metropolista, Business World, Philippines Graphic, Pilipino Mirror, Consumer Asia Magazine, The Market Monitor, Cook Magazine, Amazing Manila Journal, Hataw!, Aliw Channel 23, DWIZ-AM, 97.9 Home Radio, Light TV, Light TV Radio, Balitang A2Z, Zoe TV, People Journal, Daily Tribune, Media House Express, Pinoy Aksyon, and Tech & Lifestyle Journal, as well as The Global Filipino Magazine. Journalists and reporters were enthusiastic about capturing every detail, ensuring that audiences stayed well-informed about the key announcements and insights shared during the event. This collaboration with such a wide range of media outlets not only expanded the reach of the messages but also highlighted the organizers’ dedication to transparency and community engagement.

By highlighting the most inspirational and prosperous leaders and businesses in the country, the 2nd Southeast Asian Premier Business and Achiever Awards 2024 honored this year’s dedication to excellence, hard work, and innovation. In keeping with its tradition of honoring the nation’s top achievers, the event made a huge impression and is set to expand in future editions.

In photo (L-R): Kenneth Esguerra, Curator; Carmina Marquez, BPI Foundation Executive Director;TG Limcaoco, BPI President and CEO; Shiela Ramos, BPI Foundation Trustee; Aprille Tijam, Ayala Museum Associate Director and Head of Exhibitions and Collections; andRonald Hilaria, Ayala Alabang Camera Club President.

Through its social development arm, the BPI Foundation (BPIF), and in collaboration with the Ayala Museum, the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) proudly opened In the Name of Progress: Selections from the BPI Art Collection, an exhibition that is currently on display at the Ayala Museum, to celebrate Filipino artistry and heritage.

Through an inspirational fusion of ancient artwork and modern photography, the show provides visitors with a unique opportunity to understand the growth of Philippine civilization, in line with BPIF’s Kasama Lahat sa Pag-unlad agenda.

“In the Name of Progress celebrates both Filipino artistry and BPI’s long-standing commitment to preserving our nation’s cultural legacy—a dedication that has grown over our 173-year journey. The BPI Art Collection embodies this commitment, showcasing the creativity, spirit, and resilience of Filipino communities through artworks that capture pivotal moments in our shared history and inspire us to envision the future,” said TG Limcaoco, BPI President and CEO.

In the Name of Progress showcases masterpieces by renowned Filipino visual artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, including National Artists Juan Luna, Federico Aguilar Alcuaz, Jose Joya, Antonio Austria, Manuel Baldemor, and more. These artworks, depicting iconic events, landscapes, and traditions offer a visual journey through Philippine history, capturing defining moments and values that have shaped the nation’s identity.

In collaboration with the Ayala Alabang Camera Club, the exhibit also features new photographic interpretations that resonate with the historical artworks. Members of the Camera Club responded to the challenge of creating photographic narratives that dialogue with the paintings, offering viewers a side-by-side perspective on the continuity and transformation of Filipino life. Through this creative interplay, audiences can reflect on the nation’s journey and envision a hopeful future.

In the Name of Progress features National Artists Juan Luna, Federico Aguilar Alcuaz,Jose Joya, Antonio Austria, and Manuel Baldemor.

Through its Arts Management Program, BPIF and the Ayala Museum are dedicated to fostering cultural preservation and assisting Filipino artists. In The Name of Progress is a prime example of BPIF’s commitment to establishing venues that celebrate the tenacity, artistry, and tales of Filipino communities while also preserving the bayanihan spirit via artistic expression.

Curated by Kenneth Esguerra, In the Name of Progress will be on view from November 20, 2024, to January 12, 2025, in the Ayala Museum’s 2F Gallery, which is reachable by the Greenbelt Walkway. All visitors are admitted free of charge.

Go to https://www.facebook.com/BPIFoundation for additional details.

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.

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanExcellence.ph/ and
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taiwanexcellence_ph/?hl=en.

BPI Branch Facade

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 or website 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.

To learn more, go to www.iskaparate.com