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The HP GCash “back-to-school” promotion, an annual tradition widely awaited by both parents and students as the new school year approaches, was just introduced by HP. It’s understandable given the fantastic possibility for buyers to receive up to P6,000 in GCash cash back when they purchase specific HP Laptop PCs, including the potent and modern Victus 15 laptop.

HP has always understood how crucial it is to give children high-quality equipment as they get ready for a new school year. Families are able to spend their large cashback benefits from this special campaign into other necessary back-to-school supplies including textbooks, stationery, and uniforms. Victus 15, a cutting-edge laptop

At the heart of the promotion lies the state-of-the-art Victus 15 by HP laptop—a sleek and powerful device designed to tackle heavy academic workloads while delivering an exceptional gaming experience. Equipped with an AMD Ryzen™ processor and NVIDIA graphics, the Victus 15 by HP can effortlessly handle even the most demanding applications and games. Meanwhile, its large, high-quality display makes it perfect for educational videos, school projects, and occasional online classes.

The Victus 15 by HP laptop offers more than just impressive hardware. It boasts a long-lasting battery, ensuring students can rely on it throughout the day. Its comfortable keyboard and trackpad are ideal for composing assignments and working on research papers. Additionally, the Victus 15 by HP provides a range of ports and connections, enabling seamless integration with other devices such as printers, external storage, and extra monitors.

Other HP laptop PCs on tap While the Victus 15 by HP takes center stage, the HP GCash Back-to-School Promo extends to a wide selection of other HP laptop PCs. Whether students require lightweight models for their on-the-go lifestyle or high-performance machines for graphics-intensive projects, HP has them covered. Some of the best-selling models of the HP Smart Tank printer are likewise included in the promotion, ensuring students can achieve seamless integration and maximize productivity throughout the new school year.

Those with an interest can check out the official HP website or go to approved HP outlets in neighboring malls to take part in the HP GCash Back-to-School Promo. The dedicated promotion website contains comprehensive information about the participating products, the redemption procedure, and the terms and conditions.

Please visit the HP Philippines Facebook page for more on this promotion. Promotional dates are May 25 through July 31, 2023. According to DTI Fair Trade Permit No. 2023’s FTEB-167737 Series.

40 pulse oximeters will be distributed to 24 healthcare facilities in the Philippines by Smile Train, the largest cleft organization in the world, and Lifebox, a global nonprofit that saves lives through safer surgery and anesthesia. This will result in 52,000 safer surgeries taking place in the Philippines over the course of the next year.

“Smile Train has worked with Lifebox for over a decade to equip hospitals with essential monitoring tools that are not only necessary for cleft surgery but can be used for other medical procedures and in treating COVID-19. While Smile Train is working toward expanding our reach in more communities, we are also looking for more ways to support and invest in our local healthcare partners,” says Kimmy Coseteng-Flaviano, Smile Train’s Vice President, South East Asia.

To assist healthcare practitioners around the world in responding to COVID-19, Smile Train and Lifebox launched the global Smile Train-Lifebox Safe Surgery and Anesthesia Initiative in 2020 and jointly distributed 8,800 pulse oximeters. In order to increase access to anesthetic monitoring and make 14 million surgeries safer, the two organizations introduced the Lifebox-Smile Train Pulse Oximeter in 2022. During anesthesia and in intensive care, pulse oximeters are necessary for monitoring patients since they measure the blood’s oxygen content.

A recent report released by Smile Train and Lifebox, “A Critical Gap: Pulse Oximetry in Low- and Middle-Income Countries,” highlighted that 15% of operating beds in low- and lower-middle-income countries lack a pulse oximeter, with 42% of recovery beds unable to provide vital monitoring after surgery.

In the Philippines, San Fernando Hospital in Pampanga, Allegiant Regional Care Hospital in Lapu-Lapu City, and Tebow CURE Hospital in Davao City have all received Lifebox-Smile Train Pulse Oximeters. In the upcoming months, more partner hospitals and organizations should start receiving the pulse oximeters. As part of the global Smile Train-Lifebox Safe Surgery and anesthesia Initiative, 1,000 pulse oximeters are now being supplied to Smile Train partner hospitals across the globe for safer anesthesia care.

In 2023, Smile Train Philippines will mark the accomplishment of doing more than 75,000 cleft operations. This incredible achievement is made possible by its committed network of partners, which includes Lifebox. Lifebox helps increase children’s access to surgery and offers countrywide complete care to patients with cleft palates.

“By partnering with Lifebox to support the medical communities that our local partners operate in, Smile Train is ensuring safer surgery for every child with a cleft across the globe,” said Flaviano. Aside from the Philippines, countries including Kenya, Somalia, and Honduras have also received these pulse oximeters.

By endorsing the 59th Binibining Pilipinas beauty pageant, scheduled for May 28, 2023 at the New Frontier Theater, BingoPlus once more reaffirmed its commitment to supporting projects and endeavors that highlight Filipino culture, Filipino pastimes, and Filipino spirit.

The first live-streaming bingo in the Philippines is the competition’s presenter, and by including viewers and pageant enthusiasts in the voting process, they have increased the contest’s excitement. The public can vote for their favorite candidates on a voting page that BingoPlus has set up on its official website. The candidate who receives the most votes will immediately go up to the Top 12 of Binibining Pilipinas 2023 and win a P100,000 cash reward from BingoPlus.

Forty lovely ladies from all over the country will vie for the four prestigious titles of Binibining Pilipinas International, Binibining Pilipinas Grand and Binibining Pilipinas Globe at the pageant.

All that beauty contest fans have to do is register and log in on the BingoPlus website (www.bingoplus.com) and cast their votes. When they do, they get the chance to win BingoPlus credits and tickets to witness the Binibining Pilipinas coronation night live. The more votes cast, the more chances of winning in the lucky draw. Voting started April 29 and will run through May 26. Lucky draw winners will be announced every Friday up to May 28.

The Binibining Pilipinas candidates recently visited and toured the newly built and biggest studio of BingoPlus in Quezon City where many of the grand, star-studded BingoPlus Nights are held. The lovely ladies gave a glimpse of what audiences can expect on finals night by putting on a mini show, introducing themselves per province, greeting audiences via livestream and inviting them to cast their votes for their candidates on the BingoPlus website.

Since its debut in January 2022, BingoPlus has been fervently promoting businesses and initiatives that share its goal of giving Filipinos access to high-quality entertainment. In addition to aggressively promoting Filipino festivities including Sinulog in Cebu, Dinagyang and Pintados de Pasi in Iloilo, and MassKara in Bacolod, BingoPlus served as the presenter of Ms. Philippines Earth 2022. Along with sporting leagues, teams, and special events, BingoPlus is a fervent supporter of musical performances and concerts.

“BingoPlus will continue to support activities that showcase our Filipino tradition and culture. As a promoter of leisure and quality entertainment, we will be part of many more initiatives that express our Pinoy love of merriment and recreation,” said Jasper Vicencio, AB Leisure Exponent, Inc. President, the company that introduced the BingoPlus brand.

Visit www.bingoplus.com for more details on BingoPlus.

In furtherance of its goal to improve farmers’ agricultural and entrepreneurial abilities, SM Foundation, Inc. The Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan on Sustainable Agriculture Program (KSK-SAP) was recently introduced by the organization in several Calabarzon locales.

The initiative was first introduced on April 13, 2023, in Padre Garcia, Batangas, and has since been expanded to Silang, Cavite, Batangas City, San Pablo, Laguna, and Calamba City. In order to assist other recipients in improving their families and communities, SMFI is also planning to offer free agri-skills training to local farmers in other areas of the region.

Empowering local farmers

 
The local farmer-beneficiaries will undergo a two-phased program, spearheaded by its partner school Moca Family Farm RLearning Center, Inc.  

 
The said program kicked off with an immersive 14-week training program, designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge in agriculture. The modular training curriculum covers topics on the latest agri-technology updates, capacity building, financial literacy, product development, and market opportunities. Through these comprehensive modules, KSK-SAP aims to empower and enhance farmers’ agricultural practices and explore avenues for sustainable growth.

As a highlight of the program’s first phase, KSK-SAP farmers will join the SM Sunday Market, a collaborative initiative between SM Foundation and SM Supermalls. This platform offers trainees a valuable opportunity to showcase their agricultural produce and gain firsthand experience in institutional selling. Through this market opportunity, participants can not only generate income but also cultivate their expertise and experience in the sales and marketing aspects of their agri-businesses.

To prepare for the second phase of the program, SMFI will also assist the farmers in formalizing their respective groups. To boost their earning capactiy and contribution to economic growth, the foundation will support them in creating a sustainable and profitable farming community through the assistance of its partner agencies.

Henry “Tatang” Sy Sr., the creator of SMFI, had a goal for KSK-SAP to be a sustainable effort that would improve the farming abilities, food security, and livelihood knowledge of low-income Filipino farmers. The program has grown over time into a thorough training program that creates chances for skill development, employment, and subsistence.

More than 28,000 marginalized farmers from rural and urban areas around the nation have benefited from KSK-SAP since its founding in 2007, enhancing their capacity for farming and entrepreneurship. Some program graduates have consequently evolved into seasonal vendors for the SM group and other neighborhood markets.

KSK-SAP is carried out by the SM Foundation in collaboration with partner agricultural schools, SM Supermalls, TESDA, DA, DSWD, DOST, DTI, and DOT.

Three international award-giving organizations have recognized SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the top integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, for excellence in transparent Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting for its 2021 Annual Integrated Report titled “Together, We Rise.”

Even before the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the Philippines made sustainability reporting mandatory, SM began publishing its sustainability reports in 2013. By alerting investors and other stakeholders on its ESG performance and impacts, decision-making procedures, and competitive positioning value in the industry, SM Prime further encourages transparency and accountability.

“We are honored to receive these awards as a recognition of our commitment to provide transparent reporting in our sustainable practices. We value all our stakeholders, and we strive to enrich the quality of life of the Filipino people,” SM Prime President Mr. Jeffrey Lim said.

At the summit of international recognitions, SM Prime bagged accolades from the biggest and most coveted awards competition in the business world called Stevie® Awards. The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards recognizes business innovation across the entire Asia-Pacific region, whereas IBAs is one of the first and most highly anticipated awards programs of the Stevie Awards that features a wide variety of categories relevant to every facet of the workplace that is open to all kinds and sizes of organizations globally. SM Prime was awarded the Bronze Stevie® Winner at the 2023 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards program and Silver Stevie® Winner in the 2022 International Business Awards (IBAs).

Additionally, the business received a Silver Rank in the National Center for Sustainability Reporting’s (NCSR) 2022 Asia Sustainability Reporting Rating (ASRRAT), a ranking system for sustainability reports. The GRI Standards compliance, GHG disclosure transparency, alignment with and support of the UN SDGs are just a few of the criteria used in the ASRRAT rating system.

The awards and recognition from other countries are proof of SM Prime’s active engagement in promoting sustainability throughout its activities. SM Prime continues to be a driving force behind economic growth by creating sustainable lifestyle cities that improve the quality of life for millions of people.

SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI), in collaboration with SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SMPHI), and the Department of Education (DepEd), has recently worked to construct two new school buildings in Laguna and Batangas, as part of its commitment to helping upgrade the country’s education system.

Two two-story four-classroom school buildings will be donated to the Laguna Resettlement Community School in San Pedro City, Laguna, and the San Antonio Elementary School in Sto. Tomas City is located in Batangas.

To ensure that children, particularly from low-income neighborhoods, have access to contemporary, secure, and conducive learning environments, each of the school buildings is planned to be furnished with instructional materials, chairs, handwashing facilities, emergency equipment, and PWD-friendly amenities.

At the signing of the memorandum of understanding on April 28, 2023, at the National Educators Academy of the Philippines (NEAP) in Malvar, Batangas, representatives from the SMFI, DepEd, and the local government units of the aforementioned provinces formalized the collaboration.

SM Foundation, through its School Building Program, is an active partner of DepEd in various educational programs. This social good initiative aims to promote quality public education by building classrooms nationwide. To date, it has turned over more than 100 school buildings to grassroots communities.

NegoSentro Media has named veteran automotive industry specialist Mark Saberola as the new Editor-in-Chief for its Auto & Tech website, which is an exciting move for the Auto & Tech sector. Additionally, they are launching a brand-new video podcast series in which Saberola will play the role of “Kuya Mark”

Mark Saberola, widely known as “The Talyer Mentor,” brings a remarkable depth of knowledge in the automobile industry to his new position at NegoSentro Media’s Auto & Tech platform. Saberola’s professional history displays a distinctive blend of practical expertise and leadership skills, starting with his early years at Ford Motor Company and ending with the establishment of the lucrative ValuePlus Auto Service franchise. His technological business, AutoServed, which showcases his extensive understanding of innovation and technology within the automotive industry, serves to further support his credentials. The different perspectives and experiences of Saberola are expected to significantly enhance the Auto & Tech platform of NegoSentro Media.

The podcast will include insightful discussions with figures from the auto and IT industries as well as other relevant fields. The mission of Saberola is to build a platform for many viewpoints while fostering innovation, business knowledge, and motivational success stories.

The Kuya Mark video podcast will be a highlight of Saberola’s role at NegoSentro. The twice-monthly podcast will cover a broad spectrum of topics, from insider insights into the auto industry to discussions on tech innovations and beyond. Each episode, lasting approximately 8-10 minutes, will feature Saberola’s engaging style and in-depth knowledge, making it a must-watch for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Homer Nievera, NegoSentro’s Chief Digipreneur, said, “Mark is the perfect choice for me. Besides being a co-alumnus at the Asian Institute of Management, his years of balanced experience in the motoring industry are commendable. We are thrilled to have Mark spearhead this new initiative. His knack for engaging storytelling, will make ‘Kuya Mark’ a standout addition to our lineup of digital content.”

Saberola expressed his excitement about this new venture: “I’m thrilled to join NegoSentro Media and launch the Kuya Mark podcast. It’s a fantastic platform to share insights, engage with our audience, and discuss anything and everything about cars and the tech space.”

“We have been searching for a year now for an EIC for our motoring niche, and Mark is a perfect fit. As someone who’s well-versed in both motoring and tech, he will drive the publication to new heights,” adds Nievera.

The selection of Saberola by NegoSentro Media and the debut of the Kuya Mark podcast are smart moves to improve their Auto & Tech content, providing a novel and interesting viewpoint to their audience. Keep an eye out for Kuya Mark’s video podcast, which promises a special mix of knowledge, inspiration, and entertainment in its debut episode.

Negosentro Media is a leading digital platform dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and providing resources for business growth and development. With a strong commitment to fostering innovation, Negosentro Media offers relevant news, articles, and insights across various industries, including automotive and technology. Visit www.negosentro.com for more details.

Kuya Mark, also known as Mark Saberola, is a seasoned automotive industry professional who recently joined Negosentro Media as the Editor-in-Chief for their Auto & Tech website. Beyond his editorial role, Mark also serves as the General Manager and Franchisor at ValuePlus Auto Services, the founder of AutoServed, and the inspirational figure behind Talyer Mentor. Known for his unique blend of practical experience and leadership skills, Kuya Mark shares his knowledge and passion for cars and technology through engaging content, including his innovative video podcast series. As a mentor and subject matter expert, Kuya Mark is dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs and businesses succeed in the dynamic world of automotive and technology. Visit www.talyermentor.com and www.autoandtech.com for more details.

In the Philippines, SATO, the social business arm of the LIXIL Group, has just begun operations. SATO offers consumers and institutions in rural and peri-urban regions who require off-grid solutions innovative, aspirational, and cost-effective sanitation and hygiene products. SATO presented its product range to decision-makers, corporate executives, and potential partners in the nation on May 17, 2023 at the Okada Manila. As we witness the meaningful event, we are delighted to know more about SATO and how beneficial the product they have for the people. I’m also excited to try and get to know more about them as I trust their efficiency. As we strive to better our lives, SATO is here to help us and give us the choices that would make our lives safe and healthy.

The launch is in line with SATO’s mission to inspire people to live a better life, every day, and enjoy a brighter future through innovative sanitation and hygiene solutions, which also happens to be the brand’s 10th anniversary. The launch in Southeast Asia is a further step in LIXIL’s mission to enhance 100 million lives by 2025.

SATO’s sanitation and hygiene products offer a practical and affordable solution to around 7 million Filipinos who still open defecate or use unimproved toilets. In addition, more than 20 million people have inadequate hand washing facilities at home, according to WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme for Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (JMP).

The new range of products will also be instrumental in supporting the country as the Philippine government works to attain Zero Open Defecation (ZOD) status and achieve universal access to safe and adequate sanitary facilities by 2028.  

The SATO series is produced in the Philippines by Manly Plastics, the largest supplier of end-to-end plastic solutions and a company that has been active there for more than 59 years. It is reliable, economical, water-saving, and easily accessible. Manly is a reputable and trusted brand with capabilities ranging from mold engineering to fabrication, mass production, and more. Manly has cooperated with businesses across the globe to produce and supply plastic components and products.

The SATO pan, stool, I-trap, and a hand washing station called the SATO Tap that enables handwashing with as little as 100 ml of water are just a few of the toilet solutions that Manly will produce for SATO. The SATO-developed trap door technology is used in the toilet solutions to minimize odor, keep insects at bay, and conserve water, providing freshness, comfort, and safety to homes and establishments without access to running water and sewage systems. Customers who want to build their first toilet or upgrade an existing one can utilize the goods in off-set settings or direct pits.

“The launch in the Philippines is a proud moment for SATO and LIXIL as we serve more consumers and institutions and expand our reach and impact into a new region. SATO solutions are already making a difference in the life of millions across the world as the brand works with partners who believe in our mission of sustainable and safely managed sanitation and hygiene” – Says Suguru Sakata, Leader, Asia, SATO

Jonathan Co from Manly  elaborated about the partnership, saying: “Simple solutions can create a large impact. We are thankful to LIXIL for bringing SATO Toilet; this is a much needed hygiene solution for the country, and at the same time, it will help the economy by choosing to manufacture locally, creating jobs for our citizens. We are committed to helping LIXIL make SATO toilet solutions a success in the Philippines. SATO is a great example and that’s why we are proud to add this innovative and affordable range of sanitation and hygiene solutions to Manly’s portfolio of offerings to its many customers.”

With the construction of its dealership in Barangay Langlangca II, Candon City, Ilocos Sur, Toyota Ilocos Sur will soon be able to meet the mobility demands of clients in the Ilocos Region. This will be the 74th dealership for Toyota Motor Philippines.

A “3S” facility, Toyota Ilocos Sur will offer sales, service, and replacement components. The dealership will have a total floor size of 5,868 square meters and be situated on a 2-hectare property. A workshop with 37 General Service & Body Repair Bays and a showroom with four vehicles on display are both included.

“We are confident that with the strong guidance of our next generation leaders and their team, along with the supervision and partnership with TMP, we can lead in offering the best possible customer experience in Ilocos Sur and further expand our market in the whole of Region 1,” said Rene So, President of Toyota Dagupan Inc. Group during the groundbreaking event.

“With the construction of Toyota Ilocos Sur, Toyota looks to maintain its position in the industry as the top-of-mind car brand. We are excited to welcome this new dealership as we create mobility and happiness for all our customers in the province of Ilocos Sur,” said TMP Senior Vice President for Marketing Division Masando Hashimoto.