Showing posts with label School. Show all posts
Showing posts with label School. Show all posts

October 18, 2023

UST tops off Henry Sy, Sr. Hall at Manila campus

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) held the topping off ceremony of the Henry Sy, Sr. Hall last October 7, 2023. The ceremony is a builder’s tradition that highlights the placement of the final beam on top of the structure.

The seven-storey building is a tribute of the Sy family, the SM Group, and UST to the SM founder for his life-long education advocacy. It is equally a manifestation of the ever-growing desire of the UST Research and Endowment Foundation, Inc., Anargyroi: FMS Foundation, Inc. (AFI) and the 152-year old UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery (FMS) to further level up in the field of medicine.

The Henry Sy, Sr. Hall will serve as a hub for simulation in medical education, interactive student centered-learning, collaborative multidisciplinary research, and interprofessional education. It will house the Sts. Cosmas and Damian Simulation and Research Center.

“The Henry Sy, Sr. Hall will be a state-of-the-art structure designed to meet the challenges and expectations of a digitally-inclined medical education landscape. It will house technologically advanced facilities and equipment, which will complement the existing teaching, learning, and research practices of the University. It is yet another milestone, securing the UST FMS a relevant spot, a significant spot in Catholic medical education in the country, the region, and the world.” FMS Dean Dr. Ma. Lourdes Maglinao said about the Henry Sy. Sr. Hall.

“Medical students can access a broad range of digital tools and resources to enhance their learning and education as we were compelled to shift to e-learning and online course platforms,” UST Rector, Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., said.

“Nowadays, keeping up with the advances in medical education is paramount to ensure that our students are competent, agile, and well-prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of the ever-changing educational landscape of modern medicine, and this building, this edifice, will give us state-of-the-art equipment, which will give our medical students a cutting-edge knowledge on how to use robotics as well as other equipment,” Fr. Ang added.

Designed by C.A. Ventura & Partners, the Henry Sy, Sr. Hall is on track to be completed by June 2024.

July 19, 2023

Back-to-School Laptops Guide: Essential factors to consider, from features to budget

Watch out as Home Credit is the key to avail of sulit devices this upcoming academic year!

Today's technology is changing and improving at the highest level of development and change. It is constantly progressing through innovations and changes. The ability to do so depends on developing and changing technology.

In today's technology-driven world, gadgets like laptops have become essential tools in empowering students in their education. From college to grade school, students now rely on these devices to research information, access digital learning materials, complete assignments and activities, and even communicate with teachers and classmates.

This reality calls for a reliable and efficient partner that every student can use in their day-to-day needs, such as a versatile laptop that can multitask and handle demanding applications for school tasks. However, this back-to-school season, parents and students have various options to choose from.

The good thing is that Home Credit, a leading consumer finance company, is here to guide you on your quest to find the perfect device for the upcoming school year. From features for usability to budget, here are the ‘wais’ things you should look for before purchasing a laptop.

Check its performance for everyday tasks

A laptop’s performance can affect a student’s overall productivity. Lags or slow response times can interfere with a student’s ability to work efficiently on school activities, assignments, and projects at a given time. For that reason, it is vital to have a high-performance or reliable laptop that can provide a smooth multitasking experience.

Check if the device has a powerful processor and at least 8GB of RAM for better performance. Additionally, ensure it has the latest operating system for compatibility with modern applications and a good graphics card if school tasks require various editing software and more. Such features are built in a wide range of laptops, including Acer Aspire Vero Work Laptop, Asus TUF Gaming F15 Laptop, and Apple MacBook Air Gold 8GB RAM/256GB.

Ensure bigger storage for files, applications

Storage is a vital feature to consider when looking for a laptop this upcoming academic year. Having a sizable storage will give a student enough space to store different files, such as research papers, learning materials, and more. It can also provide considerable storage for educational applications and software with larger sizes. With that in mind, make sure to get a laptop built with at least 500GB to 1TB of ROM to not worry about running out of capacity, such as the Huawei Matebook D15 i5 11th Gen, HP 15S Work Laptop, and ASUS Vivobook 15.

Assess its battery, design for portability

For students, the battery is a crucial factor for a laptop. Power outlets are not always available for the next recharge whenever they are outside the house or on campus. With long-lasting battery power, students can take their laptops anytime and anywhere and use the device for an extended period to work on their school tasks. Look for a laptop equipped with a battery that has the power to last for more than eight hours. For instance, there are the Acer Aspire 3 i3 and the HP 15S i3 Silver Laptop for a reliable study partner.

Additionally, a laptop’s weight and dimensions impact its portability. Because students sometimes bring their laptops to school, a heavier or bulkier device may not be ideal as it might strain their shoulders and backs. That is why always consider a lighter and slimmer design like the Realme Book i3 Work Laptop for a handy device.

Make sure it adheres to the budget

If there is already an established budget for the laptop, stick to it to avoid overspending. As there are various options available out there, it is appropriate to first compare the specs and prices before buying. Choose the one that is affordable and has the specs that can meet a student’s needs, and do not forget to take advantage of on-sale laptops to save money.

Get ‘sulit’ laptops with Home Credit this back-to-school season

To avail of powerful or reliable laptops this coming school year, Home Credit is the key! With its back-to-school promo, enjoy flexible POS with 0% interest to purchase ‘sulit’ laptops.

You can get your hands on the best high-performance laptops below PHP2,499 per month, such as Acer Aspire Vero Work Laptop, Asus TUF Gaming F15 Laptop, and Apple MacBook Air Gold 8GB RAM, among others. There are also value-for-money laptops under PHP1,999 per month, including Huawei Matebook D15 i5 11th Gen, HP 15S Work Laptop, ASUS Vivobook 15, and more.

If you want budget-friendly laptops below PHP1,499 per month, then Home Credit got you covered because you can take advantage of the Acer Aspire 3 i3, ASUS Ryzen 3 Laptop, Realme Book i3 Work Laptop, and more.

Aside from these ‘sulit’ laptops, Home Credit has more in store if you are a Home Credit customer. You can also enjoy its back-to-school cash loan promo that you can use for other school expenses. With just one minute of processing time, you can enjoy PHP3,000 up to PHP150,000 loan amount with flexible payment options from 12 to 60 months. Other than that, if you are an eligible customer, you can also have up to five months of free installment when you pay on time.

So, what are you waiting for? Shop now with Home Credit, and do not miss the chance to enjoy its back-to-school promo. Visit this link to be updated.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see what’s new in the Marketplace.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

June 20, 2023

Go for Gold: College of Nursing of the Our Lady of Fatima University Golden Anniversary and Grand Alumni Homecoming


It is a dream come true for many Filipinos to finally become a nurse and serve the country and the world but for the College of Nursing of the Our Lady of Fatima University in Valenzuela City, it is a testament to its vision more than 50 years ago to form men and women highly professional imbued with the sense of mission to care for the sick.

Fifty years after its first batch of graduates in 1973, the College of Nursing of the Our Lady of Fatima University- Valenzuela Campus has become the home not only of so many topnotchers in the Nursing board exams but most of all, the seedbed of some of the most caring nurses in the country and the world.

A month after celebrating the International Nurses Day (May 12), the College of Nursing of Our Lady of Fatima University-Valenzuela Campus celebrates its 50th founding anniversary and grand alumni homecoming on June 24, 2023 at the RISE Tower corner Fatima Ave. and McArthur Highway, Valenzuela City.

Registration starts at 4:00 PM.

The weeklong celebrations kicked off last Sunday with its annual free medical-dental clinics at the quadrangle of the Valenzuela campus. Rendering services were students and faculty members of the College of Nursing and some alumni who have come home from the US and Europe to attend the Gala Night on Saturday.

For all alumni, please get in touch with Ms. Roselle Rustia at 0935-852-7556 or Ms. Rosanna Suva at 0920-979-0253.

They may also check with the Alumni Affairs Office at alumniaffairs@fatima.edu.ph.

March 21, 2023

Chevron sponsors AmCham Foundation ScholaRun to help send youths to school

To help send disadvantaged youths to school, Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), marketer of the Caltex brand of fuels and lubricants, together with its shared services center, Chevron Holdings Inc., sponsored the recent 9th AmCham Eat and Run ScholaRUN at the Liwasang Ulalim, CCP Complex, Pasay City.

The run-for-a-cause is an annual event by the American Chamber Foundation Philippines, Inc. (ACFPI) to help raise funds for its scholarship program. ACFPI supports underprivileged youth through various development and education initiatives.

The scholarship enables students in high school, college, and vocational courses to fund their tuition fees and school supplies and provides allowance and guidance all to way to their on-the-job training. At least 2,000 former AmCham scholars were able to finish their studies since the program started which Chevron has always supported.

About 175 employees from CHI and CPI joined the run in support of the AmCham Foundation's cause. The event registered over 3,000 runners.

“We have been a long-time partner of AmCham and its initiatives and programs. Through this activity, we were able to further strengthen our relationship and commitment to the foundation as well as our support to their scholars. We trust that through our collective efforts, students get a chance to have a better life and more opportunities to succeed,” shared Chevron Human Resources Regional Manager Mark Quebral.

“It’s a great feeling knowing that your mere presence and participation is already helping underprivileged students in their studies. As added bonus, you also get to do something good for yourself through exercising and staying active. Chevron believes in AmCham’s cause of contributing to the community and helping people in need, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with them and supporting their other events and activities,” CHI General Manager Ethan Flowers shared.

At the awards ceremony after the run, CHI Corporate Affairs Manager Arlita Narag accepted a plaque of appreciation as AmCham’s co-presenter of the 9th ScholaRUN. Hammering on its unique eat-and-run concept, participants got to taste American favorites such as pizza, burgers and donuts upon reaching the pit stop. The 9th Eat and Run ScholaRUN featured categories in 200M, 3K, 5K, 10K and 21K.

“We are very happy with the turnout and the general mood of the run. We are, after all, doing this for students and youth in need, so we are beyond grateful to all who participated. Currently, we have 50 scholars studying vocational technology at Don Bosco Makati. All the proceeds from our fundraising events, including the ScholaRUN - Eat & Run, go to our scholarship programs. So as always, we appreciate our sponsors, partners and participants who made this event possible,” said Edwin Feist, President of ACFPI.


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About Chevron
Chevron is one of the world’s leading integrated energy companies. We believe affordable, reliable, and ever-cleaner energy is essential to achieving a more prosperous and sustainable world. Chevron produces crude oil and natural gas; manufactures transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals, and additives; and develops technologies that enhance our business and the industry. We are focused on lowering the carbon intensity in our operations and growing lower carbon businesses along with our traditional business lines. More information about Chevron is available at www.chevron.com.

September 10, 2021

Nestlé Wellness Campus: Empowering students, parents, and teachers to live healthier lives


COVID-19 is a serious illness the whole world is currently battling, but this should not hinder us from taking care of other health problems. This includes malnutrition, which has been a concern among children, even before the pandemic. Malnutrition is one of the biggest impediments to human development. Children who are stunted, wasting, or obese may have some trouble performing at school, may experience low self-esteem, and later on, suffer long-term effects as an adult.

According to a report from the Food and Nutrition Research Institute, 26% or 1 out of 4 school children are underweight, which is a condition where children are found to weigh below the standard weight for the childs age. A survey last year also showed that 62% or 6 out of 10 of households experienced moderate to severe food insecurity -- the state in which people are at risk or actually suffering from inadequate consumption to meet nutritional requirements.

Students from Pasig engaged in one of the pre-pandemic activities of the NWC program

In taking care of childrens nutrition, health, and wellness, we help ensure that they can have a brighter future ahead. However, due to lack of knowledge or resources, children are not able to eat food that is of adequate quality and quantity which is the number one cause of malnutrition.

This is because we all know that an unhealthy child cannot learn as much as one who is healthy, well-fed, and given nutritionally sufficient assistance, especially for those who cannot afford the expense of maintaining healthy children,DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones said during a Memorandum of Agreement signing last January 2021.

The first inter-school dancercise competition in Antipolo back in 2014

As a Kasambuhay sa Kalusugan of Filipinos, Nestlé ensures that children get the proper nutrition they need through the Nestlé Wellness Campus (NWC) program, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd). Established in 2013, the program began with the goal of raising awareness and providing educational materials to pursue wellness daily. One of their activities was a dance program after the flag ceremony to promote an active lifestyle. Nutritionist-dietitians also gave talks about balanced and healthy food choices to address the nutrition gaps and encourage healthier eating habits.

Over the years, NWC grew and was embraced by different DepEd regions. The dance program evolved into an inter-school and inter-region competition to recognize the best schools that have implemented the program in their community. Nestlé is committed to promoting nutrition, health, and wellness in the new normal by providing digital tools such as nutrition and sustainability modules, and wellness song and dance videos to educate students, teachers, and parents on the seven healthy habits they can apply at home.

Teachers using the NWC digital modules in their online classes to promote health and wellness to their students

Nestlé also recognized teachers who went the extra mile to sustain and reinforce its healthy habits and create innovative learning experiences for children. They launched an exclusive NWC Facebook Group to continue their commitment and strengthen the pivot online. In this group which now has more than 47,000 members, teachers get to learn and share best wellness practices in their schools. Additionally, a Facebook Group exclusive for parents is also underway to provide them access to wellness content for their children and the entire family.

The program started at only 250 high schools with a total of 650,000 students in the National Capital Region (NCR) during its first year. Now, NWC has grown to inspire more than 7 million students from Grades 1 to 10 in 13,000 schools to live healthier lives. For SY 2021-2022, Nestlé anticipates the program to reach more than 10 million students across 7 regions nationwide, namely: NCR, CALABARZON, Bicol, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Davao.

Collaborating alongside the government, Nestlé drives its purpose by unlocking the power of food to enhance the quality of life for everyone today and for the generations to come. “Nestlé Philippines, as a Kasambuhay sa Kalusugan, is actively engaged in supporting Filipino families to achieve a healthier and active lifestyle, especially in the face of the pandemic,” Kais Marzouki, Nestlé Philippines Chairman and CEO said.

To learn more about how you and your family can start your wellness journey, join the Nestlé Wellness Homeroom Facebook Group. For some inspiration, watch the Kasambuhay for Good docuseries to see how Nestlé and its partners are empowering communities through nutrition, health, an

March 4, 2021

COVID-19: Schools for more than 168 million children globally have been completely closed for almost a full year, says UNICEF


UNICEF unveils ‘Pandemic Classroom’
at United Nations Headquarters in New York to call attention to the need for governments to prioritize the reopening of schools

NEW YORK, 3 March 2021 – Schools for more than 168 million children globally have been completely closed for almost an entire year due to COVID-19 lockdowns, according to new data released today by UNICEF. Furthermore, around 214 million children globally – or 1 in 7 – have missed more than three-quarters of their in-person learning.

The analysis of the school closure report notes that 14 countries worldwide have remained largely closed from March 2020 to February 2021. Two-thirds of those countries are in Latin America and the Caribbean, affecting nearly 98 million schoolchildren. Of the 14 countries, Panama has kept schools closed for the most days, followed by El Salvador, Bangladesh, and Bolivia.


“As we approach the one-year mark of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are again reminded of the catastrophic education emergency worldwide lockdowns have created. With every day that goes by, children unable to access in-person schooling fall further and further behind, with the most marginalized paying the heaviest price,” said Henrietta Fore UNICEF Executive Director. “We cannot afford to move into year two of limited or even no in-school learning for these children. No effort should be spared to keep schools open, or prioritize them in reopening plans.”

School closures have devastating consequences for children’s learning and wellbeing. The most vulnerable children and those unable to access remote learning are at an increased risk of never returning to the classroom, and even being forced into child marriage or child labor. According to latest data by UNESCO, more than 888 million children worldwide continue to face disruptions to their education due to full and partial school closures.

The majority of schoolchildren worldwide rely on their schools as a place where they can interact with their peers, seek support, access health and immunization services and a nutritious meal. The longer schools remain closed, the longer children are cut off from these critical elements of childhood.


To call attention to the education emergency and raise awareness about the need for governments to keep schools open, or prioritize them in reopening plans, UNICEF today unveiled ‘Pandemic Classroom,’ a model classroom made up of 168 empty desks, each desk representing the million children living in countries where schools have been almost entirely closed – a solemn reminder of the classrooms in every corner of the world that remain empty.

“This classroom represents the millions of centers of learning that have sat empty—many for almost the entire year. Behind each empty chair hangs an empty backpack—a placeholder for a child’s deferred potential,” said Fore. “We do not want shuttered doors and closed buildings to obscure the fact that our children’s futures are being put on indefinite pause. This installation is a message to governments: we must prioritize reopening schools, and we must prioritize reopening them better than they were before.”

As students return to their classrooms, they will need support to readjust and catch up on their learning. School reopening plans must incorporate efforts to recover children’s lost education. UNICEF urges governments to prioritize the unique needs of every student, with comprehensive services covering remedial learning, health and nutrition, and mental health and protection measures in schools to nurture children and adolescents’ development and wellbeing. UNICEF’s Framework for Reopening Schools, issued jointly with UNESCO, UNHCR, WFP, and the World Bank, offers practical advice for national and local authorities.

October 15, 2020

A different kind of online learning for your kids at Macquarie Prep School : The innovative preschool, open for enrollment year-round, takes the Montessori Method online

With the current situation resulting in a necessary shift to digital learning, it’s only normal that parents be concerned about how to educate their children away from the actual schools. While learning using the internet and other online resources may be innovative, the quality of learning children receive through these methods is also an important thing to consider.


These challenges in the online learning era are why Macquarie Preparatory School is bringing its fun and unique Montessori Method to preschoolers at home, with all-year-round enrollment open to students across the Philippines in the 2020-2021 school year.

Macquarie, an accredited Member of Montessori Australia, is a preschool that teaches its students the basics of reading, writing, and arithmetic using the highly-touted Montessori Method. Through the Montessori Method, students learn lessons through the use of Montessori materials designed to teach concepts. Of course, Macquarie’s highly-trained teachers are also present to guide students in each learning session through video conferencing.

During the current pandemic, these Montessori materials can be sent to their homes or picked up at the campus—with nationwide delivery available. Class sizes are capped at four students per class to best maximize the potential for learning in each session.

Parents are also encouraged to lend a hand in their child’s learning, as Macquarie gives them a digital app that allows them to review lessons, track their child’s progress, contact administrators, and more. They also get access to a digital library with which they can practice reading at home.

With the Montessori Method and the experience and expertise of its staff, Macquarie Preparatory School can get your child ready not just for school, but for life. Let go of your worries about your child’s learning in these extraordinary times, and schedule an online consultation at macquariepreschool.com/book-online.

For more info on Macquarie Preparatory School and its online classes, follow Macquarie on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MacquariePreschoolPH, on YouTube at Macquarie Preschool, on Instagram at @macquariepreschoolph, and visit the website at www.macquariepreschool.com.

July 21, 2020

Globe and Google for Education to transform digital learning in local schools

As another academic year approaches, schools and universities are preparing to utilize and maximize distance learning following the government’s quarantine guidelines. Globe is partnering with Google for Education, to meet the growing demand for better academic services and transform the digital learning experience.



Google for Education is an ecosystem of products, programs, and training grounded on the platform’s innovative tools and resources. Through the partnership, Globe will provide a comprehensive onboarding process, tailor-made teacher training, and strong after-sales support for partner schools and institutions nationwide. 

“We have seen how technology has powered many industries amid the COVID-19 pandemic. We believe we can do the same for the education sector through blended or fully online learning. Together with Google for Education, we aim to boost the digital learning efforts of the Philippines’ educational system through more accessible, user-friendly, and interactive solutions for parents, teachers, and students,” says Mark Abalos, Segment Head for Education at Globe. 

Google for Education offers the following suite of services:

G Suite for Education. This platform offers best-in-class productivity tools built for the classroom, including Gmail, Classroom, Docs, Spreadsheets, Slides, and Drive. Cloud-based technology allows for collaborative learning, so teachers and students can work on lessons simultaneously.

Classroom. The Google Classroom makes the teaching experience more seamless for educators. Here, teachers can create and manage assignments with ease. Classwork pages organize assignments into modules, so educators can better facilitate discussions. They can also use built-in grading tools to sync test results and feedback in one location. Originality reports can analyze authenticity in papers and flag statements that need citations.

Meet. This service allows teachers to connect with students virtually through secure video calls and messaging. Each classroom can have up to 250 participants per call and up to 100,000 live stream viewers. Meet also makes it easier for both teachers and students to join a classroom, as each class can have a dedicated meeting space with a unique link.

Socratic. Google’s AI-powered tutor helps students navigate the learning process through high-quality videos, concept explanations, and online resources. The platform also offers curated subject guides for quick reference. When students need clarification, they can use the built-in voice and photo input to ask a question.

Read Along. Students can improve their literacy skills through this speech-based reading tutor. This platform provides an expressive and animated reading assistant to keep students engaged and help them in their reading journey. Educators can listen to a student read aloud and provide corrective feedback.

Google Forms. Teachers can create forms, surveys, and quizzes using Google Forms. Through G Suite Integration, they can import questions from Docs and Sheets. Grading is also now faster, easier, and automated as they can view results in a chart, graph, or spreadsheet format. To maintain integrity, locked mode prevents students from browsing other websites during a test.

Chromebook. This secure, simple, and powerful device is easy for schools to set up and manage. The Chrome Education upgrade unlocks the full capabilities of the device to help both students and teachers thrive in the new normal. The App Hub connects educators with Chrome-verified developers to access useful tips and content by grade, subject, and educational goals.

G Suite Enterprise for Education. Academic institutions can upgrade their digital environment with educational tools and security controls. G Suite Enterprise elevates both teaching and learning through an institution-wide email database using GMail, security and administration controls, and eDiscovery for emails, chat, and files. Schools can also access a 24/7 support platform via phone, email, and online.

With Globe myBusiness’ partnership with Google, academic institutions can improve the overall education experience for students and help them learn amid the new normal. 

Learn more how you can excel in the ever-changing landscape of 21st Century learning with Globe myBusiness via https://www.globe.com.ph/business/sme/education-offers.


May 18, 2020

QBO's online conference empowers startups in the face of COVID-19

Over 100 startup and technology leaders from 20 cities across the Philippines, other parts of Southeast Asia, and the United States gathered together in a five-day virtual training conference organized by QBO Innovation Hub together with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). The conference aims to elevate the capacities of Technology Business Incubators (TBIs) in the country.


Speakers of the virtual conference share different aspects of startup operations from remote global locations. Photo credit: QBO Innovation Hub


TBIs are facilities that house startups and equip their business development. They ensure the sustainability of the startup’s operation, the advancement of entrepreneurs, and partnership of the startups with public sectors.

"During this difficult time, the need to come together and work on solutions is placed at the forefront of innovation. Now is the best time for us incubator managers and technology leaders to help give birth to new startups and develop existing ones,” shared QBO Operations Head Natasha Bautista.


QBO Operations Head Natasha Bautista emphasized the importance of leadership and the clarity of the mission and vision in the day-to-day business of a startup. Photo credit: QBO Innovation Hub


DOST, for its part, is keen on paving the road through tech-enabled assembly as it aligns with the agency’s #RoadTo100Startups initiative to support the training and development of startup industry leaders all over the country and enable a rise in the number of Filipino startups. 

DOST Executive Director Dr. Enrico C. Paringit remarked, “We at the DOST, firmly believe in the startups’ vital role in our nation’s future. With the right support and resources, their capacities are limitless. We aim to empower them and elevate their operations so they can remain at the forefront of innovation. That’s why conferences like these are so important.”


Funding support for startups 

Insights from the conference focused on the creation of incubator programs, use of creative marketing tools, planning of effective online campaigns, fostering of startup engagement, development of incubators in university setting, and garnering of stakeholder support especially during times of crisis.

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, examining company values may prove particularly apt. It’s during a crisis that startups who can provide solutions may need more funding.

Innovative startups will also need to know how to remain relevant. That’s why in a session focusing on the best ways to generate buzz for a startup, tech media outlet e27 co-founder Thaddeus Koh encouraged startups to improve their public relations tactics and invest in their relationship with the media as it will help drive awareness for their brand. “PR is about telling the best story about someone else,” explained Koh.

The pandemic has also shown why there is a need for strong startup support and funding. Early-stage venture fund and seed accelerator 500 Startups was represented by Singapore Country Lead EE Ling Lim. According to her, accelerators and incubators always make sure to ask startup founders about what they want their startups to get out of their programs. 

Lim was joined by their Partnerships Director Thomas Jeng who bared that operations require paying the bills, thus strong support is needed. “Accelerators and incubators need to pay for staff and related expenses: grants, and stipends, and entrepreneurs; office space and other overhead; marketing and PR for the programs as well as ongoing events especially those that are trying to build sustainable communities around entrepreneurship, ranging from demo days to happy hours, to networking events,” he explained. 


Working together to solve problems

Collaborations are not only possible during crises but are also welcomed under normal circumstances. This was highlighted by Plug and Play Tech Center’s Co-Founder Jojo Flores, who talked about “Bridging the Startup-Corporate Gap.”

As a large organization itself, Plug and Play Tech Center invests in around 200 early stage startups per year and works with over 400 large global networks. “Corporations have accepted that a lot of new technologies, new ideas and innovation is really happening outside their environment,” said Flores. “It’s all about creating this platform whereby startups can collaborate with the various stakeholders, whether corporations, VCs, etc.”



QBO brings its community online in a virtual conference to continue empowering and honing their operations amidst COVID-19. Photo credit: QBO Innovation Hub

In the Philippines, for example, startups step up to help combat COVID-19 through collaborating with the private sector and the government. DOST, in collaboration with Developers Connect, helped launch the RapidPass system where frontliners manning checkpoints can easily inspect vehicles and individuals by scanning QR codes. Tech startup Senti is working closely with the Department of Health (DOH) by providing the knowledge-base for the chatbots in DOH’s different channels to address COVID-19-related inquiries while Multisys developed the online and mobile platform StaySafe.ph which aims to help the government in conducting efficient contact tracing. Limitless Lab, in partnership with The Asia Foundation, developed LGU vs COVID PH, an easy-to-use, updated, and reliable dashboard of all COVID-19 related information which LGUs can use and refer to.


Academes stepping up to develop startups

Collaboration in the interest of innovation isn’t limited solely between corporations and startups. Schools, for one, also definitely play a role in the innovation ecosystem.

This was the topic covered by Rick Rasmussen, an industry fellow at UC Berkeley’s Sutardja Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology. During his session he explored not only the evolution of incubator and accelerator programs but also the various ways schools such as UC Berkeley mentor startups and foster environments that will help them grow. Here, he cited examples such as Northwestern University’s “Experiential Entrepreneurship Course” and UC Berkeley’s “Disrupt Berkeley” to illustrate how academe collaborates with startups to enable their growth. 

In “Disrupt Berkeley”, for instance, Rasmussen details how that class covered the idea of social entrepreneurships. “We talked about how you do mission-based interviews and goals, and identify impact. We also covered problem-solution in social entrepreneurship mode.” It was during this class that Rasmussen was able to guide his students to create projects of their own that would solve various issues around campus. 

It’s this sort of guidance that startups can do with, especially in a challenging and unprecedented crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic. With schools playing their role in the startup ecosystem, startups can look back on the values of social entrepreneurship and solving real-world problems.

Apart from the technical aspect of operations, the key takeaway from the training conference is that there is a glimmer of hope even in tough times, the Filipino startup community is still rallying and going strong. In fact, it may be them that best ensures our country can have a future to look forward to, and so the push by QBO and DOST to encourage the growth of Filipino startups is now timelier than ever.

“There is a need to support our startups now, more than ever,” concluded Bautista. “Because startups and what they bring–digitalization, automation, speed–will be what we need to keep going in the post COVID-world.”



ABOUT QBO

QBO (‘ku-bo’) is an innovation hub or a platform for the startup community to collaborate, develop talent, and grow. It provides startups with support and resources through events and capacity building programs as well as focused interventions designed to improve access to markets, knowledge, capital, and talent. QBO is the country’s first public-private initiative for startups, created through a partnership between IdeaSpace, J.P. Morgan, Department of Science and Technology, and Department of Trade and Industry.

Spurred on by the vision of Filipinos startups changing the world, QBO’s mission is to create a globally competitive startup ecosystem in the Philippines.




October 3, 2019

Jollibee lets you show off your school pride with all-new Jollibee UAAP Dolls


With Season 82 of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) underway, fans of the 8 participating schools are all out in cheering for their favorite varsity teams!

For the past years, the UAAP Basketball Season has become one of the most anticipated events in the country, gathering students, alumni, and sports enthusiasts alike to some of the most exciting rivalries in the history of Philippine collegiate basketball.

This season, Jollibee is joining in on the fun competition with a special edition offer that will surely take the UAAP fans’ anticipation to even greater heiFrom now until October 31, fans can go all out in cheering for their teams when they avail of the all-new Jollibee UAAP Dolls! This limited-edition merchandise will surely amp everyone’s excitement as they watch their most-awaited games this season.


Fans can now show off their school pride as they wave their UAAP Jollibee Dolls during game time to rally behind the Soaring Falcons, support the Blue Eagles’ “One Big Fight”, celebrate the “Animo!” spirit of the Green Archers, and bring out the fierce game of the Tamaraws.

With their Jollibee UAAP Dolls, fans can also cheer on the Bulldogs as they turn back their opponents, fire-up the spirit of the UE Red Warriors, show some love for the Fighting Maroons, and support the Growling Tigers as they claw back into contention.

Go #AllForMore and show your joyful school spirit this UAAP Season 82! Cheer your favorite team to victory with the all-new Jollibee UAAP Dolls for only P299 for every Jollibee value meal purchase. Promo is available for dine-in, take-out, drive-thru, and delivery, in selected Jollibee stores nationwide.

Visit our Facebook page to see where you can get your special edition Jollibee UAAP Dolls: https://bit.ly/2khiYq9

September 27, 2019

Small steps that go a long way The SM Store Share Shoes Program brings joy to kids in Isabela

Shoes are essential in one’s journey through life, especially forstudents. With a pair of good shoes, they will not only be able to fulfill their daily tasks with ease, but it can also inspire them to work hard and take little steps to achieve their dream. 



Students of Diasan Elementary School in Echague, Isabela celebrate after receiving their new pair of shoes.


For most students in the city, a school bus or a stroll down the sidewalk are their usual commute. But for students in the province, it is a different story. 

Samantha, a student from the Diasan Elementary School, shared the hardships she and her classmates face to reach school. 

“Malayo po ang nilalakad namin ng nakapaa. Madulas po ‘pag umuulan at mahirap, maputik ang daan. ‘Yung mga iba po na nakatira sa may bundok, naglalakad po sila ng malayo. (My classmates and I have to walk a long way to get to our school. When the rainy season comes, the slopes become slippery and dangerous which makes it harder for us. The others who live near the mountain walk even farther),” Samantha said. 

Diasan Elementary School is tucked in the middle of the Barangay Diasan, a remote farming community in Isabela with over 600 residents. Students like Samantha have to walk an hour or more on rough terrain to get to and from school and are sometimes forced to skip classes if the river is swollen due to heavy rains.

Despite the challenges, one would be surprised at the great lengths they are willing to go to for their education. The simple gift of a new pair of shoes will allow them to walk to and back to school in comfort and safety. 

These are the kinds of stories that inspired the SM Store’s Share Shoes program to reach to the community to continue its mission of bringing joy - through the gift of shoes that can help make the journey of the students easier and more comfortable. 

Sharing the gift of new shoes

Most students in Diasan have not set foot in a mall before, let alone a shop selling shoes, so as a treat for the kids, employee volunteers from The SM Store, Savemore and SM Foundationtransformed one of the classrooms into a shoe store. They assisted the kids in choosing and fitting their very own shoes from the display of clogs, sneakers, sandals, flats and slip-ons donated by The SM Store MLC Shoes and Bags, and SM’s retail affiliates Crocs and Simply Shoes.


A volunteer washes the feet of one of the kids to teach him the value of proper hygiene. 


Replicating the shopping experience, an employee volunteer from The SM Store Cauayan assists a kid in fitting her new footwear. 


The employee and community volunteers also set up a “Feet Washing Corner” before the shoe fitting to impart the importance of taking care of one’s feet. The kids could not hide their joy as they selected and tried on their new footwear. 

Apart from receiving new shoes, the kids were treated to fun games and groceries from Savemore. The kids even gamely participated in a Zumba dance number led by The SM Store Cauayan employee volunteers. Wearing their new pairs of shoes, the kids enjoyed the activities knowing their feet were comfortable and secure. 


Taking steps to a brighter future

Samantha said that having a pair of shoes is important to protect their feet from injuries.

“Masaya po ako nu’ng nakita ko ‘yung mga kaibigan ko na suot na nila ‘yung sapatos kasi ‘di na sila mahihirapan maglakad ng isang oras papunta ng iskul (I was so happy to see my friends wearing their shoes because now, they won’t have a hard time walking an hour to school),” Samantha said. 

An employee volunteer from The SM Store Cauayan assists a kid in choosing his new pair of shoes. 


Teacher in charge Domenador Mayuyo Jr. shared that for some of the kids, it was their first time to own a pair of shoes, with many of them walking to school wearing slippers or barefoot. 

“It’s the first time for some of our students to receive a pair of shoes. Having a new pair of shoes is like a dream come true for them. It is a blessing for them to receive new pair of shoes that they can use to go to school,” Mayuyo said. 

Through the gift of new shoes, The SM Store hopes to inspire these kids to take those important steps toward achieving their goals. 

A student of Diasan Elementary School walkshome with his new pair of shoes from The SM Store’s Share Shoes Movement. 


Promoting the culture of sharing and purposeful giving

The shoe donation was also accompanied by a medical mission through the partnership of The SM Store with the SM Foundation, Caritas Philippines and the Diocesan Social Action Center of Ilagan. Residents of the community were able to avail of medical and dental consultations, laboratory works, and had X-ray and ECG examinations, and medicines courtesy of the SM Foundation’s Mobile Clinic, all for free.

An employee volunteer and student beneficiaries bond after the program. 


The activity was a part of the SM Share Movement, a program promoting a culture of sharing and purposeful giving among SM shoppers all year long. Since 2015, the SM Share Movement has collected over 1.3 million donations composed of shoes, clothing, books, school kits, disaster kits and toys.

The SM Store’s Share Shoes program encourages its shoppers to donate brand new and pre-loved footwear not just to help kidswalk safely and reach their desired destinations, but to also inspire them to take important steps toward achieving their goals. 

“We would like to thank all the shoppers and our partners who donated and participated in The SM Store’s Share Shoes Movement. This wouldn’t be possible without you. Given the rough terrain and the challenges that these students of Diasan face just to get to their school, the new pair of shoes is a great help to them,” said Cielito Velasquez, Assistant Branch Manager of The SM Store Cauayan. 


One of the classrooms is transformed by SM employee volunteers into a shoe store to give the kids a shopping experience. 


Through the #SMShareMovement Project, the SM Store remains committed to its promise to give back to communities and to be a partner in their development. Through the simple but valuable gift of shoes, they can continue to be a part of Barangay Diasan’s journey as the children take steps toward a brighter future. 

Find out more about the #SMShareMovement’s quarterly donation drives and ways to contribute to upcoming projects, by liking The SM Store Facebook page and by following @TheSMStore on Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

August 25, 2019

Center of Innovation rises in Valenzuela OLFU unveils RISE Tower

Progress is spurred by ideas born out of creativity, breaking beyond the confines of what is deemed as conventional. To continually develop, society needs more innovative minds – thinkers who refuse to stagnate, and citizens who act towards advancement. 



Distinguished guests join the OLFU Administrators in the Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony. L-R: OLFU Executive Vice President Don August O. Santos; University President, Dr. Caroline Marian S. Enriquez; Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Kalookan, Most Rev. Deogracias S. Iñiguez, Jr., D.D.; CHED Commissioner Aldrin Darilag; Senator Win Gatchalian; Valenzuela City Mayor Rex Gatchalian; Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Yvonne S. Guevara; Fatima University Medical Center President, Dr. Vicente O. Santos. 

In “improving man as man”,  believes that innovation powers the nation; hence its dedication to creating modern, empowering spaces for the promising learners and future visionaries. 

Very recently, OLFU once again affirmed its commitment through the blessing and inauguration of the Research, Innovation, Science and Enterprise Tower, better known as the RISE Tower. Situated in Marulas, Valenzuela City, the RISE is a highly advanced facility housing simulation laboratories and collaborative areas with cutting-edge equipment and technologies. 

“This facility was envisioned to serve as an integrated academic space where theories taught in the four walls of the classroom will be experienced and put into play”, University President Dr. Caroline Marian S. Enriquez said. Notably, the eight-story building features the Clinical Simulation Center furnished with training units and hi-fi manikins that teach pediatric care, obstetrics care, intensive care, surgical procedures, IV therapy and more; the Air Fatima, a mock airplane cabin; the Seven on the 6th, a mock hotel; and the Robotics Center, among others. 

Another highlight is the Learning Commons which is a series of learning spaces for study, research, collaboration and discussion, as well as a repository of print and digital resources. Some of its amenities are the amphitheater-styled Lecture Hall, a spacious Reading Area, and Discussion Rooms. It is also home to the Research Development and Innovation Center, the University’s capital for new discoveries. 

“We hope to build up creative and innovative thinking, encourage interactive discussions, and at the same time, develop confidence and professionalism in our students”, added Dr. Enriquez. 

Several distinguished guests graced the event, including Senator Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian; Valenzuela City officials, Mayor Rexlon “Rex” Gatchalian, Vice Mayor Lorena “Lorie” Natividad-Borja, District 1 Congressman Weslie “Wes” Gatchalian; Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commissioner Aldrin Darilag, and CHED NCR Regional Director IV, Dr. Virginia Akiate. Senator Gatchalian applauded the facility’s ability to provide “hands-on experience”, counting it as “one of the most advanced facilities in the entire country”. 

He likewise acknowledged how the City of Valenzuela and OLFU are historically intertwined since the school’s founding in 1967. “As Fatima progresses, develops, and expands, so does Valenzuela”, he said. 


About OLFU: Starting as a 25-bed hospital in 1967 in the City of Valenzuela, OLFU evolved to become the esteemed, progressive institution that it is now – an ISO 9001:2015 Certified university known as the “Home of the Topnotchers” owing to its standing in licensure examinations, year-on-year. With over 50 years of perpetuating its quality brand of education, it has also established a presence in Quezon City, Pampanga, Antipolo, Nueva Ecija, and recently, Laguna. 

The RISE Tower is located on Fatima Avenue corner MacArthur Highway, Marulas, Valenzuela City, Metro Manila. 

For more information, you may visit its official website, www.fatima.edu.ph, or its official Facebook page, www.facebook.com/fatima.university

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