Ninja Van Philippines, a leading provider of hassle-free delivery solutions and tech-enabled logistics, celebrates its 7th birthday by looking back on a path of growth, innovation, and dedication to being a trustworthy logistics and growth partner for companies of all sizes. Ever since, I have always trusted Ninja Van to deliver my parcels to the right place. It’s not only trustworthy; it’s also convenient and satisfying. They are also hygienic and prioritize the welfare and common good of their customers.
Selfie during our Ninja Van Cabuyao Hub tour of the facility – Cross Belt Sorter System, WSS, and Mail.
Todo Hustle, No Hassle for 7 years
Over the past seven years, Ninja Van Philippines has reached more than 18 million Filipinos with its hassle-free logistics services, achieving 100% coverage of the nation. In order to fulfill its purpose of offering dependable and effective logistics solutions, Ninja Van Philippines’ more than 8,000 employees and workers support everyone from Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (MSMEs) to major international e-commerce platforms and brands.
In order to assist MSMEs in navigating the intricate and constantly shifting networks of suppliers, manufacturing partners, transportation companies, and financial service providers, Ninja Van Philippines has also developed a suite of supply chain management solutions, known as Logistics+. This was done in response to the changing needs of Filipino businesses. This gives MSMEs the freedom to rethink their growth potential and allows SMEs to concentrate on the expansion of their companies.
As part of its 7th anniversary, Ninja Van Philippines showcased its Cabuyao Hub – the Group’s largest automated sorting hub in the region. Beyond full automation, the hub sports fully integrated measurement and sortation services which can automatically weigh and scan parcels – making parcel sorting and tracking more accurate and efficient.
“The capabilities of our Cabuyao Hub highlight our ongoing investments in tech-driven innovations that bring quick deliveries for the shippers who have continued to place their trust in us over the past seven years,” said Ninja Van Philippines Country Head Jose Alvin Perez. “Alongside our pursuit of operational excellence, our hustle continues to provide dedicated shipper support to round out a best-in-class logistics experience for our shipper partners.”
CBY Operations
Fueling the Filipino hustle
Ninja Van Philippines also highlighted programs and services geared to help MSMEs thrive in an increasingly competitive business landscape. These value-added services aim to supercharge the growth of e-commerce businesses beyond logistics, and include:
Ninja Rewards – a loyalty programme for shippers to earn points and redeem attractive rewards and exclusive business solutions and services.
Ninja Direct – end-to-end procurement solutions with comprehensive supplier management and negotiations, crossborder logistics, and customs clearance
Ninja Fulfillment – an all-in-one storage, order, and inventory management solution that enables online sellers and business owners to save on additional operational costs such as manpower and warehousing.
Creating opportunities for MSMEs
The birthday celebration featured a presentation of seven shippers who pushed their way to success with Ninja Van Philippines as a means of saying thank you to loyal shippers throughout the years. During the press conference, these MSME shippers—Monarchy, Calliah Fashion, Sweet Night, Bona Vita, Arctic Hunter, The Diet Coach, Little Retail PH, and Chef Ayb’s Herbal Tea—displayed their histories and wares while highlighting how Ninja Van Philippines assisted in their growth through effective, tech-enabled logistics.
“As we celebrate our 7th anniversary, we reflect on the incredible journey that has brought us to where we are today. Our focus on innovation, reliability, and holistic support has set us apart in the industry – we are a growth partner committed to the success of our e-commerce sellers, supporting them beyond last mile logistics with a suite of value-added services. We look forward to many more years of empowering businesses and driving success with them,” says Sabina Lopez-Vergara, Chief Commercial Officer, Ninja Van Philippines.
Uratex Philippines is still contributing to the improvement of Filipinos’ lives and the creation of memorable experiences as it marks its 55th year. A Filipino success story that brings quality and innovation to every Filipino household is the top foam company in the nation, which sells mattresses and pillows.
Uratex strengthens its corporate social responsibility by giving back to the communities once more to mark this significant achievement. Uratex will donate 2,355 mattresses to charitable organizations along with the brand’s well-known endorsers and a select group of social media influencers.
Some of the institutions that will benefit from our gifts include elderly homes and orphanages, which offer refuge to people who have been left behind by their relatives. The House of Somang (House for the Elderly), Saint Rita Orphanage, Tahanan ng Pagmamahal Children’s Home, and Bethany House Sto. Niño Orphanage are a few of the particular recipients. Orphanage Nio. When it comes to providing care and assistance to those who need it most, these organizations play a vital role in offering care and support to those who need them most.
This unique opportunity allows Uratex to further reach the communities that it serves and makes a positive impact on the lives of its partners and customers.
The external partners of Uratex have helped in choosing the charities in need of mattresses, including shelters or homes for the aged, women, children and adults with special needs and community hospitals from across the region. Uratex prioritizes underfunded charities or those who do not have sufficient financial resources to carry out their missions effectively.
Moreover, Uratex is mindful of its role in protecting the environment.
Uratex is actively supporting different sustainability programs such as tree planting, mangrove planting, and green initiatives towards use of solar panels and electric vehicles. It has recently launched Trill Seave, a product collection with fabrics that are made from upcycled marine plastics. Through this, Uratex aims to help address plastic pollution that damages our ecosystems and threatens the health of several marine species.
World-Class Company Sets a World Record
The 2,355 mattresses, the top-selling Classic Uratex Single (36 x 75), were used in an extraordinary event set to become an iconic undertaking. On October 22 at the SMX Convention Center (Halls 2-4), the world-class Filipino company set the Guinness World Record of the largest Human Mattress Domino.
Uratex Philippines is your trusted leader in mattresses, foams, and sleep products that is consistently recognized by Reader’s Digest with 14 Consecutive Platinum Awards in the Mattress Category.
Through the years, Uratex is guided by the vision of its founder, Mr. Robert Cheng: “We will not stop until we provide every Filipino with a comfortable and affordable mattress to rest on.”
Uratex Celebration
As such, Uratex wants to share its mission far and wide as they made the official attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest human mattress domino in celebration of its 55th Anniversary by using a total of 2,355 mattresses.
The initial two numbers, 2 and 3, are derived from the year 2023, while the final two, 5 and 5, were selected to commemorate Uratex’s 55th anniversary in 2023.
The largest human mattress dominoes was previously recorded in Brazil, consisting of 2,019 people. It was achieved by Globo Comunicação e Participações S.A. and Ortobom at Riocentro, in Rio de Janeiro, on August 6, 2019. The attempt lasted 11 minutes and 13 seconds. After which, all the 2,019 mattresses were donated to charities.
The participants were selected from a list of volunteers, which included both Uratex employees and charity representatives. All volunteers who met the height and age criteria specified by Guinness (at least 4’11” in height, aged 16 and above) and were in good physical condition were welcomed to be part of the event.
“Teamwork is what made us last for 55 years, and by collectively striving to set a world record for the largest human mattress dominoes, each individual plays a crucial role in achieving this feat,” Eddie Gallor, Executive Vice President for Automotive. “And because Uratex is dedicated to giving back to various charitable causes. Surpassing a Guinness World Record serves as a meaningful avenue towards making this philanthropic endeavor a reality.”
Icons For an Iconic Brand
The record-setting event was witnessed by Uratex owners and executives led by Mrs. Naty Cheng, the CEO and president; William Lee, executive vice president for furniture and bedding; Eddie Gallor, executive vice president for automotive; Peachy Medina, managing director; and Stephen Cheng-Lee – Sleep Business Unit director.
“As the leading foam manufacturing company in the country, one of the core missions and vision of Uratex is to serve the Filipino community and by beating the record, we bring honor to the Philippines on a global scale,” William Lee, Executive Vice President for furniture and beddings, proudly declares. “Moreover, since it is the Filipino people who support Uratex, we want to give back by making them a part of this historic event.”
Kathryn Bernardo
Kathryn Bernardo, a Kapamilya actress, attended the event just after her most recent movie, A Very Good Girl, became a local and international hit. The blockbuster ambassadress for the Uratex Classic Line is the box office queen.
“Kathryn is a highly influential and marketable celebrity in the Philippines, particularly among the younger generations (Gens Y and Z). She is well loved by Filipino households and commands a significant presence in the broader mass market, making her the perfect fit to endorse Uratex’s classic foam products,” shares Stephen Cheng-Lee, Sleep Business Unit director.
“Aside from that, we are proud to only get brand ambassadors who are actual Uratex users and Kathryn has been a Uratex user since she was very young. This is also the reason why ‘It’s always been U, Uratex’ is our campaign slogan for our brand ambassadors this year.”
Banwa Private Island, a multi-award-winning all-villa getaway in the Philippines’ Palawan province, is proud to announce that it has once again received the prestigious “Private Island of the Year” award from Destination Deluxe. This acknowledgment highlights Banwa Private Island’s persistent dedication to giving its visitors an amazing and sustainable experience.
Private Island of the Year 2023 Winner: Banwa Private Island
The Commercial Director of Banwa Private Island, Pamela Balce, expressed her happiness upon learning of the honor by saying, “We are truly humbled by this recognition as it highlights the dedication of our team to sustainability, authenticity, and exceptional service. Banwa Private Island’s commitment to creating an extraordinary guest experience remains unwavering, and we are honored to be acknowledged alongside environmental innovations by the Aquos Foundation.”
The extraordinary quality, honesty, and innovation that Banwa Private Island continually provides are attested to by the Destination Deluxe Awards, which honor leaders and innovators in wellness and travel. The awards honor and praise change-makers who push the boundaries and innovate in their respective industries. The awards are judged by a distinguished panel of 20 judges, which includes well-known industry professionals.
Banwa Private Island was also recently honored with the prestigious award for “The Philippines’ Best Beach, Island, or Upcountry Resort” in the first Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2023, further reaffirming its position as a top tourist destination in the region. Additionally, Banwa Private Island rose to a lofty echelon of world-class hospitality after being hand-selected by the esteemed Robb Report editors for inclusion in their inaugural list of “The 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth.” This carefully picked list of classic hotels from around the world that transcend trends and achieve genuine—and sustained—greatness was created by Robb Report, a publication renowned for its rigorous standards.
In the midst of breathtaking natural beauty, Banwa Private Island offers a haven of solitude and peace. Modern beachfront residences on the garden island guarantee seclusion and tranquility for discerning visitors. Banwa Private Island raises the bar for opulent hospitality in the area with its dedication to eco-friendly methods and experiential travel.
Contact the bookings team by phone or WhatsApp at +639178882864, send an email to [email protected], or visit their website for additional details.
Beiersdorf executives turning over their PhP1,000,000.00 donation to Watsons Philippines and Punlaan School on International Day of the Girl. The donation will benefit Punlaan School’s pharmacist scholars.
Girls are driving change throughout the world by shattering glass ceilings in a variety of industries and professions and upending preconceived notions about what is achievable for them.
In response, Plan International Pilipinas, Watsons, and Beiersdorf Philippines joined forces to develop a series of initiatives that will enable young women to reach their full potential free from the prejudice and obstacles that have long held girls and women back.
The International Day of the Girl (IDG) is observed through the implementation of several programs. IDG, which takes place every year on October 11, is a potent opportunity to draw attention to the lives and reality of girls and young women.
The “BraveHER, BoldHER, & StrongHER: Redefining Girls’ Power to Take Charge, Break Barriers, and Thrive” event, held to commemorate IDG, is a collaboration of the three organizations. With a focus on equitable and high-quality health care and professional development to boost their economic resilience, this event provides a forum for debates regarding girls’ rights and gender equality.
Bringing together Nimisha Jain Country Manager Beiersdorf Philippines, Cathy Seco of Executive Director Plan International Pilipinas, and Sharon Decapia, AVP for Marketing, PR & Sustainability of Watsons in one panel became an opportunity to open a genuine dialogue and prompt first-hand discussions about the importance of advancing girls’ rights, including their right to equal opportunities, celebrating their achievements, and raising awareness about the challenges they face.
From L-R: Twyla David, Portfolio Manager, Gender & Inclusion and Child & Youth Engagement, Plan International Piliipinas, Nimisha Jain, Country Manager of Beiersdorf Philippines, Stephanie Barraud, Senior Vice President of Beiersdorf ASEAN, Kim Reyes, Director, Trading Beauty & Commercial Services of Watsons Philippines, Sharon Decapia, AVP for Marketing, PR & Sustainability of Watsons, Ana Maria Locsin, Executive Director of Plan International Pilipinas, Philippe Magentie, Global Sales Director of Beiersdorf Global, and Cathy Seco, Program Director of Plan International Pilipinas sign Beiersdorf, Watsons, and Plan International Pilipinas’ commitment of support to empowering young Filipinas.
“We care beyond skin for an inclusive society and aim to foster social cohesion. From the get-go, our efforts are grounded in our goal of providing inclusive education, promoting protective environments, and fostering skills development in girls. Every initiative is a reflection of our commitment. And the progress of these young girls showcases the impact of our collective effort,” says Nimisha Jain.
The invaluable participation of Punlaan scholars and youth advocates from Plan International Pilipinas also provided valuable insights into what it’s like to be a girl in today’s world and their shared hopes for a gender-equal society, where they are treated as experts in their own experiences, as agents of change, and as equal partners.
But more than joining hearts and minds for a conversation, the event also provided a chance for all partners to express their commitment towards supporting girls and young women in the country.
In partnership with Watsons and Plan Pilipinas International, Beiersdorf (makers of NIVEA) participated in “Girls Takeover”, a one-day program that gave 10 chosen young Filipinas the opportunity to learn, acquire essential work skills, and experience corporate world from Beiersdorf and Watsons leaders.
Beiersdorf is setting their sights high with an ambitious target: to make a positive impact on the lives of 300,000 people in total by 2023 through the Empowering Girls projects. To achieve this Beiersdorf has set up programs that offer quality, inclusive education, promote protective environment and strenghten health services, an ideal environment for girls and young women to thrive. To demonstrate this commitment, Beiersdorf Philippines’ formal declaration of support for Filipina girls, aligns seamlessly with Beiersdorf’s global commitment, which kickstarted in 2020 and is set to continue until 2025.
Additionally, the company is turning over donating PhP1M to Punlaan School’s Pharmacist Scholars, providing young women and girls with a better chance to realize their dreams of becoming pharmacists. To generate the funds, Beiersdorf dedicated a portion of all NIVEA sales made at Watsons stores from July 15 to August 31, 2023.
Plan International, a development, humanitarian, child and youth-girl-centered organization working in the Philippines since 1961, adopts a lifecycle and gender-transformative approach to economic empowerment.
Girls Takeover was held on September 30 and is an activity by Watsons, Beiersdorf and Plan International Pilipinas. It aims to empower young girls to learn, lead, decide, and thrive through a one-day workshop and work experience activity.
“Girls and young women make up the majority of the world’s 628 million unemployed young people. They don’t have access to education or job training, preventing them from getting the skills they need to access decent work and break out of poverty,” said Ana Maria Locsin.
“This is why this event serves as a unique opportunity for us to come together and ensure that every girl can pursue the career and life she wants,” Locsin added.
The organization is currently implementing projects that provide support to girls and young women from a young age and throughout each stage of life, enabling them to make economic decisions while challenging the gender norms and societal stigmas imposed upon them.
Watsons, as the leading health, wellness and beauty retailer brand, also recognizes their influence to change lives and uplift communities. As part of Watsons’ Sustainable programs under the “People” pillar,
Watsons’ has chosen Punlaan School, a renowned institution that caters to young women from underserved communities by providing essential training and education, to be the center for the Watsons Apprenticeship Program. Through this special 6-month program, young women are eqipped with the skills needed for a successful career path with Watsons.
“This Apprenticeship Program with Punlaan school reflects our commitment to support and create job opportunities for young women,” shares Josefina Arriola, People Innovations Project Director of Watsons. “Our goal is to be able to educate and equip them with the skills to be job-ready and empowered members of the community.”
It is also worth noting that this is more than just a one-day event for these organizations. BraveHER, BoldHER, & StrongHER comes in the tails of two other activities: the recent “Girls Takeover” hosted in five Watsons stores and the “Girls on the Rise” Career Workshop.
A signature IDG event of Plan International, the Girls Takeover aims to encourage girls to occupy spaces where they are rarely seen or heard, engaging in conversations that empower them to learn, lead, decide, and thrive. On September 30, Watsons and Beiersdorf welcomed 10 girl advocates who had the opportunity to take over the positions of Beauty Ambassadors, Cashiers, and Store Managers for a day.
As a follow-through activity to the Girls Takeover, the career workshop focused on developing the girl advocates’ intrapersonal skills, which are essential for success in the job market. During this workshop, Beiersdorf and Watsons staff actively engaged with the girl advocates by conducting modules focused on personal development and personal and professional values. These modules provided valuable insights and skills that empowered the advocates and boosted their readiness for future employment opportunities.
“We believe that girls can be bigger than any barrier, bolder than any bias, and stronger than their struggles. Our collective goal is to provide them with opportunities to overcome obstacles and thrive in all aspects of their lives,” said Locsin.
Visit https://www.beiersdorf.com to discover more about NIVEA Philippines’ ongoing efforts and activities to support the community’s young women.
Visit https://plan-international.org/philippines/ to learn more about Plan International Pilipinas’ efforts to advance girls’ equality and children’s rights in the Philippines.
By spreading the love for animals in need, Lalamove users in Asia and Latin America are being urged to “Make a Pawfect Move” by the top on-demand delivery company. Lalamove collaborates with the nonprofit Pawssion Project in the Philippines to rescue injured and abandoned animals, care for them while in foster care, and find them new homes so they can have a second chance at a better life.
Through the “Make a Pawfect Move” campaign, an expansion of Lalamove’s Deliver Care program, the company seeks to improve the lives of abandoned dogs and cats at Pawssion Project by providing financial support, as well as assisting their shelter ‘paw-rents’ who give their all to keep the organization running.
By signing up for Lalamove Rewards and accruing LalaPoints with each successful order, users can show their support for the Pawssion Project’s animal friends in need. Users can donate Php 20 with a minimum of 480 LalaPoints or swap 1,230 LalaPoints for a Php 50 donation. The Pawssion Project will receive 100% of the money.
With hundreds of rescued pets, especially at their Bulacan shelter, Lalamove has extended free delivery services for Pawssion Project, as well as providing those willing to donate with a discounted delivery rate using the promo code LALAPAWSSION.
Apart from these, Lalamove employees have also taken the initiative to go to the Pawssion Project Bulacan shelter to make the rescued pets’ days brighter with donated food and other necessities, and by feeding them, bathing them, and cleaning their homes.
“Many Filipinos are naturally animal lovers, and we have seen this in local communities where the culture of feeding and taking care of strays is a usual occurrence. In Lalamove, we bring this culture of malasakit toward our community and our furry friends. Through this campaign, we get to connect our Lalamove users to make a positive impact for all animals who need help, while empowering the growing petconomy in the country by helping them reach these untapped communities,” remarked Djon Nacario, Managing Director of Lalamove Philippines.
For Malou Perez, Founder of Pawssion Project, this Lalamove campaign was a beautiful blessing. “We partnered with Lalamove earlier this year because we had one common goal: to be a voice for the voiceless. Pawssion Project is more than grateful for Lalamove’s support, since we held the Pawchella fundraising concert in April to free and discounted deliveries to this day. With Lalamove’s support, we will be more capable of providing the daily essentials and supplies that rescue animals need while waiting to be adopted at our shelter,” she shared.
Calling all animal lovers! Lalamove invites everyone to get involved and spread the word to paws-itively contribute their LalaPoints to make the world a better place for our four-legged friends.
Users only need to complete these four easy steps to join the Rewards program and donate LalaPoints to Pawssion Project’s pet buddies.
Leading on-demand delivery platform Lalamove Philippines introduces BiyahEdukasyon, which will grant a total of PHP 20,000 in provides for the upcoming second semester of the academic year 2023 to 2024 to 100 partner drivers’ children and/or siblings from Luzon, Metro Manila, and Cebu. They are given the opportunity to pursue their academic objectives and have access to a high-quality education.
The initiative, which falls under the Deliver Care brand, embodies Lalamove Philippines’ commitment to helping partner drivers and their families realize their dreams, particularly those related to education, in addition to providing them with employment opportunities and a means of subsistence.
“At the heart of BiyahEdukasyon is our desire to uplift the lives of our partner drivers and their loved ones. Nakikita namin ang dedikasyon ninyo sa araw-araw na makatulong sa mga deliveries ng libu-libong tao, kaya ngayon, hayaan niyo naman pong ihatid namin ang pasasalamat sa aming programa (We see your dedication every day to help move things that matter through deliveries for thousands of people, so this time, allow us to show our gratitude through our program). In every student, we see boundless potential, dreams that can transform lives. We want Lalamove to play a part in turning those dreams into reality,” Djon Nacario, Lalamove Philippines’ Managing Director emphasized.
How to apply?
Lalamove’s BiyahEdukasyon program is open to Lalamove partner drivers – from the serviceable and covered areas of Lalamove in Luzon, Greater Metro Manila, and Cebu – for their children and/or siblings, currently enrolled in senior high school or college, and pursuing any field of study who exemplify a strong desire to continue higher education.
Partner driver applicants can choose one beneficiary – whether their kid or their sibling – then fill up the application form, submit the required documents, and tell their inspiring story. There are no grade requirements to qualify for this program.
Empowering dreams, transforming lives
Beyond providing financial support, Lalamove’s BiyahEdukasyon program unites partner drivers and their families as they work toward shared objectives.
According to Nacario, Lalamove Philippines thinks that partner drivers ought to allow their family members the freedom to follow their aspirations without being constrained by financial obligations. This is where Lalamove comes in.
“BiyahEdukasyon is only the beginning of our major steps toward the fulfillment of our long-term commitment to empowering our partner drivers and their families. It aims to underscore Lalamove’s steadfast, long-term commitment to enable the economic well-being of our partner drivers, ” Nacario said.
Revolutionizing Auto Service in Pasig City: [Seated] Mr. Normann Chiu, President of ValuePlus, and Dr. Mary Sarah Padron finalize their groundbreaking agreement. [Standing, 2nd from Right] John Kenneth Lumalang, alongside ValuePlus executives [Standing] Rem Agustin, Admin Manager, Mark Saberola, General Manager, and Darlyn Valenzona, Repsol Marketing Manager, witness this pivotal moment for VPX Auto Service Franchising.
Dr. Mary Sarah Padron and her husband John Kenneth Lumalang have joined ValuePlus Auto Service Philippines Inc.’s pioneering brand VPX Auto Service Franchising as its newest franchisees. The youthful pair, who reside in the busy city of Pasig, injects a new wave of vitality and innovation into the network.
Dr. Sarah is a practicing physician, and Kenneth has experience working in the food and beverage division of the cruise business. They are both overseas Filipino professionals. The couple balances the joys and difficulties of parenting a family while starting this new chapter with the challenging effort of creating their franchise.
“I’ve always been fascinated by cars and the complexities of auto maintenance.” Channeling this enthusiasm into a VPX franchise is a dream come true. “We strive to deliver exceptional service by combining medical precision with culinary flair,” adds Dr. Sarah.
Kenneth, her husband, adds, “We are thrilled to be a part of a brand that resonates with our values.” VPX is innovative and customer-focused, qualities we want to instill in our own franchise.”
“We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Dr. Sarah and Kenneth into our VPX family,” says ValuePlus President Normann Chiu. Their particular skill set and enthusiasm for the business make them great franchisees.”
Mr. Mark Saberola, GM of ValuePlus, is equally upbeat, saying, “Dr. Sarah and Kenneth embody the spirit of what VPX aspires to be—versatile, committed, and focused on delivering top-notch service.” Their various backgrounds promise an intriguing dynamic that we can’t wait to experience.
A Journey Fueled by Aspirations and Icing: Dr. Mary Sarah Padron and John Kenneth Lumalang with their one-of-a-kind ‘Opening Soon’ cake, a heartfelt gift from VPX, capturing the promise and excitement of their forthcoming auto service venture in Pasig City.
Dr. Sarah and Kenneth defy the notion that a doctor and a F&B expert entering the vehicle care industry is a reach. Their wide-ranging skill set not only enhances the VPX brand but also disproves the widespread belief that technicians and engineers should only do auto servicing.
The location of the Pasig City branch in Brgy. With the impending opening of Ugong, VPX Auto Service Franchising will have reached another significant milestone in its mission to transform auto care in the Philippines. The inclusion of this brilliant duo on the VPX roster demonstrates the company’s inclusive and progressive philosophy.
Please get in touch with Mark at[email protected]or 0917-637-2085 for VPX Auto Service franchise queries.
Allianz PNB Life Chief HR Officer, Kathy Oliva, and Chief Marketing and Sustainability Officer, Gino Riola (7th and 8th persons from the left), proudly accept two awards at the 2023 HR Excellence Awards ceremony, joined by their colleagues from Human Resources, Protection and Resilience, and Market Management.
The success of an organization depends on its workplace culture, which supports employee engagement, productivity, and performance. Everyone is inspired to work their hardest when there is a strong, supportive culture that upholds the company’s ideals.
Allianz PNB Life (AZPNBL) has been able to focus on giving its clients the finest financial journey experience possible, which supports its purpose to ensure the future of the Filipino people. This has contributed to its strong year-over-year success. The company’s great performance is visible in both its human resources and financial results.
Making Work-Life Balance Possible
As a testament to its commitment to promote an engaging and positive workplace culture, Allianz PNB Life was recently recognized in several categories of the HR Excellence Awards, which honors the best-in-class HR teams and individuals, for their ground-breaking and impactful work executed across the entire HR function to champion the way forward.
AZPNBL won two Gold Awards at the HR Excellence Awards – Excellence in Workforce Flexibility and Excellence in Workforce Mobility – a recognition of the company’s effective response to harness digital tools and offer streamlined and timely services to its clients and employees. As it is cognizant that work culture and attitude are ever-evolving and that workers’ attitudes and behaviour toward work must be taken into consideration to bring out the best in them, the company was able to match their passions with their responsibilities, to show respect to their right to dignity of work, while maintaining a proper balance of achieving organizational goals and targets through proper and responsible work.
As such, AZPNBL laid the groundwork for its employees to have the choice and be flexible in the manner in which they can do their work. With proper guidance in adhering to pre-pandemic principles from HR and their line managers, employees can choose when, where, and how they can do their work, while maintaining a high quality of output and a results-based measurement system that assures that goals are met.
Allianz RideSafe-Kaagapay Participants joyfully and proudly display their certificates following training with Tambay Cycling Hub, SOS Children’s Village, and Allianz PNB Life.
Enabling empowerment through crisis management
As AZPNBL shifted to hybrid ways of working, it is also important to mitigate and handle risks both in real life and online. The company won a Bronze Award for Excellence in Crisis Management Planning through its Allianz PNB Life Protection and Resilience program, which focuses on building safety and protection of the company’s “software” and “peopleware”.
Communication materials promoted cyber-safety, with regular training and seminars on disaster preparedness for employees and Life Changers. These utilized creative and practical ways of building capacities of AZPNBL employees so that they will be up-to-date on cybersecurity issues, and be equipped with basic knowledge on handling emergency situations during natural disasters.
Building a CSR culture
As the company continues its robust growth in the industry, it also reaches out to communities to promote inclusivity and sustainability with several impactful campaigns through its Corporate Social Responsibility programs. The Ride Safe initiative, which promotes cycling as a mode of transportation in four major cities within Metro Manila, won a Silver recognition from the HR Excellence Awards and Most impactful CSR Initiative at the Insurance Asia Awards 2023.
Aside from helping clients achieve their financial goals, AZPNBL encourages them to build a better tomorrow and secure their future through various sustainability initiatives that are geared not just for its clients, but also its communities.
AZPNBL partnered with public and private organizations to promote biking as a healthy and sustainable form of transport, and to supply biking infrastructure and education. Aside from projects that included installing artful bike racks, a solar-powered cyclist pit stop, and a bike lane along a major thoroughfare, it has expanded to include a livelihood component by offering bike maintenance repair training for SOS Children’s Village Kaagapay program participants from Iloilo, Cebu, and Tacloban.
The Seeds of Tomorrow project, which also won an award at the Insurance Asia Awards 2023 for Most Creative Campaign focused on sustainability and food security. Through this project, Allianz Protect policyholders were given the opportunity to contribute a percentage to the World Wide Fund for Nature Philippines’ (WWF-PH) Food Shed Farming Enterprise Project.
Along with its strong performance in the industry, these CSR activities have helped create awareness and build credibility and trust for AZPNBL among Filipinos. Allianz PNB Life Chief Marketing Officer Gino Riola says, “Our vision is to Secure the Future of Filipinos not only through our innovative products and services that are designed to meet lifetime financial planning and wealth accumulation, but also through extending our support for Filipino communities through programs that will reach even future generations. This is in keeping with the Allianz Global initiatives to create positive social impact through the way we run our organization and by using our expertise as an insurer, investor, and asset manager.”
As a Great Place to Work from July 2023 to July 2024, the Global Authority on Workplace Culture also recognized AZPNBL. In addition, Insurance Asia News named AZPNBL Life Insurer of the Year among Asian Insurers, and International Business Magazine named AZPNBL Most Outstanding Life Insurance Company-Philippines in 2022.
The accolades, according to Allianz PNB Life President and CEO Joseph Gross, encourage the business to keep providing top-notch goods, services, and solutions as part of its dedication to helping Filipinos. “We are anticipating strengthening our market leadership with our ongoing, pertinent innovation, which includes the digitalization of our insurance policies, along with the know-how, commitment, and Filipino brand of caring from our Life Changers.”
Following comments made by Housing Minister Sean Fraser that capping the number of international student visas is “one of the options” they “ought to consider” in order to address the housing problem in Canada, the Canadian government recently made news.
Kaede Kikumoto, a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), stated that he is aware of this persistent problem.
“I must admit na tumaas talaga significantly ang cost ng pagbili at pag-rent ng bahay sa lahat ng parts ng Canada. Madami na rin ang nagiging homeless; humihingi ng tulong sa government at mga non-profit organizations for housing; hindi maka-afford bumili ng bahay dahil sa tuluy-tuloy na pagtaas ng presyo kaya nananatiling nangungupahan,” he said.
Late last year, he had dinner with the consul general of Vancouver and the ambassador of the Philippines to Canada, and they talked about possible causes of the issue. Kaede drew attention to the flaws in the visa processing system by noting a twofold increase in the number of Filipino international students studying in Canada. “Dahil ‘pag nabibigyan ng mga false promises at na-experience na ang realidad sa Canada, sa Consul General at Filipino non-profit organizations na ang lapit, sila din nahihirapan. “Minsan, nasisisi pa if you’re planning to allow ghost consultants or unauthorized representatives in the Philippines,” he remarked.
As Kaede stated, these misleading promises include the ability to become a permanent resident of Canada in a short amount of time and to take their family with them when they move abroad.
Eventually, our kababayans will realize that these things don’t come easy. This is when things start to complicate. He said, “Dito na papasok ‘yung ayaw nilang umuwi kasi nakapangutang na sila o nagbenta o nagsanla para panggastos papunta sa Canada. Ang ending, mag-o-overstay ng walang legal status o mag-cash jobs, which is illegal. ‘Yung iba ay nakikitira sa mga kamag-anak o kaibigan, pero may mga ilan na nagiging homeless o nagkakabaon-baon sa utang.”
Committed to helping our kababayans experience a hassle-free trip, Kaede’s Kikumoto Immigration Firm offers free consultations to guide them on their journey and to avoid getting scammed.
“Tumutulong ang Kikumoto Immigration Firm sa mga kababayan natin na magbigay ng mga tamang impormasyon at walang false promises. Ine-educate namin silang mabuti sa kung anong pwede nilang kaharapin sa Canada,” he said.
Guiding their clients in every step of the way, Kaede also warned people of engaging with illegal representatives.
“Inaalalayan ng Kikumoto Immigration Firm ang mga clients bago sila mag-apply for a visa, bago umalis, pagdating sa Canada at maging sa kanilang pananatili doon. Hindi namin sila iiwan sa ere, hindi gaya ng mga unauthorized representatives na hindi naman talaga legally authorized to represent clients. Hindi nila inaral ang immigration laws ng Canada unlike Kikumoto Immigration Firm na ran and owned by an RCIC,” he added.
“Sa Kikumoto Immigration Firm, may malasakit sa clients. Kaya naman tuwang tuwa ang mga clients namin dahil kami pa mismo ang nagreremind sa kanila kung pwede na mag-apply ng post graduate work permit, permanent residency o citizenship. Inaalagaan namin ng mabuti ang immigration status nila sa Canada para hindi sila maligaw ng landas,” Kaede concluded.
About Kaede Kikumoto
Kaede Kikumoto, RCIC, MBA, PMP is a regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant and BC Commissioner for Taking Affidavits. Hailing from the city of Vancouver, Canada, Kaede is the Chief Executive Officer of Kikumoto Immigration Firm that has successfully processed over a hundred clients in less than a year.
About Kikumoto Immigration Firm
Established in 2021, Kikumoto Immigration Firm is a Vancouver-based company run by licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kaede Kikumoto.
Kikumoto Immigration Firm commits to offer professional immigration, education, recruitment & employment, business, and legal services to help provide fellow Filipinos the best opportunities and a better life in Canada.
Every region of the world has been affected by the water problem. Around 1.1 billion people globally lack access to water, and a total of 2.7 billion experience water scarcity for at least one month of the year, according to the World Wildlife Fund. Worse, by 2025, two-thirds of the world’s population could experience water shortages, and ecosystems would suffer.
A number of nations have made considerable advancements toward securing a more sustainable future for the planet as the seriousness of these problems becomes more and more clear. Singapore’s water management strategy and the sophisticated conservation measures used in The Netherlands are two notable examples.
In the Philippines, a multifaceted approach has also been embraced by the public and private sectors in safeguarding and managing water resources. SM Supermalls are at the forefront of the conservation and management of water resources in its mall facilities. Its endeavors form the foundation of a more sustainable and water-secure future that the company has long been advocating.
SM’s Vision: Greening the Future
SM has been recycling water since the 1990s, treating an average of 1 billion gallons of water annually in recent years, equivalent to 1,600 Olympic-sized swimming pools. In line with the SM Green Movement, SM has been continuously working towards responsible consumption and water conservation in its properties.
To illustrate, the SM Supermalls’ comfort rooms have smart fixtures to manage water flow. There are also signages in the mall that advocate wise water use. Wastewater is channeled to the malls’ sewage treatment plants that recycle an estimated total of 4 million cubic meters of water, lessening their dependence on freshwater sources for non-potable uses. SM did this even before the measure was required by way of the Clean Water Act in 2004.
SM Mall of Asia has been involved in various sustainability and environmental initiatives, including water recycling among others.
SM Supermalls utilizes recycled wastewater from the mall for irrigating its gardens.
SM Malls have “Save Water” signages that typically aim to create awareness about water conservation and inspire people to take simple actions to reduce their water consumption
Recently, SM took a step further in resource management by launching the first-ever water filtration system at SM City Baguio. This facility can turn collected rainwater into potable water for mall tenant use such as washing and cooking as well as dishwashing and handwashing, allowing the mall to further lessen its dependence on the freshwater supply of the Baguio community.
SM took a step further in resource management by launching the first-ever water filtration system at SM City Baguio.
The Rainwater Treatment Facility at SM City Baguio, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong (right) samples the potable water from the SM Baguio rainwater treatment facility with SM SVP for Marketing Joaquin San Agustin (left) and SM VP for Corporate Compliance Engr. Liza Silerio (center).
The commitment of SM is consistent with global environmental sustainability and climate action objectives. This dedication is further demonstrated by rainwater collecting basins in flood-prone areas and the rainwater filtration system at SM Baguio. These noteworthy initiatives highlight the continued requirement for sustainable practices and legislation.
A Future with More Hope
The path to sustainable water management is still being traveled. Through its activities, SM Supermalls paves the road for a more secure and environmentally friendly future.
