All set for political comeback for Team Pilipinas (Gilas) and NLEX Road Warriors Coach Yeng Guiao

Popularly known as “Coach Yeng”, the former Pampanga Vice-Governor Joseller “Yeng” Guiao is all set for a political comeback and will brace for his campaign in 2019 despite his double-duty as Team Pilipinas and NLEX coach.

Having served as a board member and three-term vice-governor of Pampanga and held the same congressional seat in 2013, this year, Coach Yeng wants to retake his former congressional seat in Pampanga’s first district.

In an exclusive interview with bloggers , Guiao said that he is running under the Kapanalig at Kambilan Ning Memalen Pampanga (Kambilan) party to retake his former congressional seat in Pampanga’s first district.

Sports person, Coach Yeng is no stranger to politics but the works he has and always been doing is full with advocacies. His legislative platform has been and will be centered on healthcare, education and other basic social services. Guiao also bared plans to strengthen more programs for senior citizens.

Coach Yeng added, stressing that the district, now more than ever, needs more basic services. “We are looking at more health care security for the people of the district as well as more access to education.” 

Coach Yeng's love for sports will also be reflected in his programs as he will push for youth development under sports. 

“As a politician you have to be aware of the everyday needs of your constituents: mga tulong sa ospital, mga namamatayan, mga naggagamot, nag da dialysis. Of course we are also putting emphasis on that. Some of our major advocacies are education and health and the protection of the environment.” says Coach Yeng Guiao.

“I have been a coach for 2 and a half years, in different teams, 7 championships in the PBA and also made the world cup with Gilas Pilipinas. We are preparing for the World Cup in China, where the best of the best will meet. These are good teams but we hope to pull some upsets. There are 4 teams in a group and if we win two games, we are going high in the rankings. Angola is the African champ, Italy and Serbia is world ranked. This time I have a different challenge, to represent the 1st District of Pampanga. I have ran for 3 terms as a Vice Governor of Pampanga, so I have both basketball and politics all my life. This is a challenge, in any way or form, I have an advocacy to have continuous improvement of the Clark Airport which is in my district. We now have more tourists, bills and resolutions have been passed. We now have a new terminal, there are other items like the North Rail too, hopefully work it out so we can run from Tutuban to there and be finished in two years. Clark is also the sports capital of the country, in hosting the SEA Games, this will be true. We have been pushing for this ever since. Hopefully this will benefit much of my constituents, together with the usual things they need for education, health, and life. Clark is progressing because all the places around it us benefiting from it now. We are also doing a lot in improving the educational system, and the health advocacy. The new law applied for universal health care is one example, we support that fully and hopefully we find ways to improve that.”

“Since I am in Basketball I am focused on it but I am a sports fan and enthusiast, to improve the other sports in general is part of that. We need to make every sport especially the ones we excel at be done and officiated better. We want to promote sports with weight categories because we have a lot of talent. I am one of the main authors of giving bigger rewards for sports winners. It is what is being used today. Funding is of course a problem, other countries are spending more but my take is that to concretely make this better, we filed to do an existing law to get 5% of gross to go to sports. Right now, 2.5% is sent to law, while the other half goes to the office of the President and nobody challenged it but I did. I am still waiting for the decision, that is 13-15 Billion pesos and it would be a big help in the yearly income of sports for that. In order to answer to solve it, we need to have that reinstated.”

“Clark has 120,000 employees, improvement of educational system and making them a part of that plus run for more investments in the district will make it a whole lot better. Living a healthy and active lifestyle is the best thing to have rather than us waiting to get sick. I will support legislations to improve the environment. If I win the district, I will still be coaching, I don’t believe we have to stop as long as we can do both. Being disciplined in the management of your time, in basketball and legislation, I have already done that in the last few years and we didn’t have a problem in commitments because I have done both. Politics and Sports have similarities, you cannot go to a game or office unprepared. There are also intrigues, but you have to be emotionally stable, you will see bashers, the pressure is great and you can lose your job. You are only as good as your last term or game, it is part of our job and we have to accept that. It is a competition, you are joining the PBA for results, same with your district, coaching for 30 years, I have seen how it happens and I can focus on service for constituents. It is both stressful, one is for 48 minutes, the other for 3 years. I constituents asking for help 24/7 and you get used to it, to handle it. I am under a local party.”

Coach Yeng is supported by team members at Team Pilipinas (Gilas) and Team NLEX Road Warriors.

Asi Taulava says “In international competitions, our team, it’s a different game. Our coach as a congressman can boost that. We are all rooting for him.”

Kieffer Ravena says “The short time I have been with them, he is very genuine. He says it when you need to improve on, every opportunity he gets to help in the youth of Pampanga. In my scenario, it would have been easy to let me go but they supported me, it helps to have leaders who gives you confidence to do your own thing. A lot of players know and want to play for him, to become the best person possible, he does it a lot. He makes students be in their best position, I am open to help in his campaign. I believe in what he is fighting for, not because he is my coach, but his sincerity, if he gets elected Pampanga will be benefiting from it.”

Galvalume 55 notches industry-first with PS MARK license for hot-dip metallic coated steel sheets for roofing

Philippine-made brand leads industry towards global-class products 

GALVALUME 55, an innovative product of the Philsteel Group, was recently awarded the first and only PS Mark in the hot-dip AL/ZN metallic coated steel for roofing category by the Department of Trade and Industry based on PNS 67:2014. The issuance of the PS Mark substantiates the premium quality of Galvalume 55 that conforms to the requirements of the Philippine National Standards, which was verified during stringent in-plant and independent product testing.

DTI Regional Director Marilou Q. Toledo (DTI IV-A) awarded Steel Corporation’s Galvalume 55 the first and only License for PS Mark based on PNS 67: 2014 in the category of hot-dip metallic coated steel sheets for roofing. On hand to receive the PS Mark license are Steelcorp Sales Director Nestor Cabrera (2nd from the right) and Philsteel Group Technical Services Manager Bernard Selga. Also on hand to witness the awarding of the license is DTI, Provincial Trade and Industry Officer Desiderio G. Jurado III.DTI Regional Director Marilou Q. Toledo (DTI IV-A) awarded Steel Corporation’s Galvalume 55 the first and only License for PS Mark based on PNS 67: 2014 in the category of hot-dip metallic coated steel sheets for roofing. On hand to receive the PS Mark license are Steelcorp Sales Director Nestor Cabrera (2ndfrom the right) and Philsteel Group Technical Services Manager Bernard Selga. Also on hand to witness the awarding of the license is DTI, Provincial Trade and Industry Officer Desiderio G. Jurado III.

The PS Mark was recently given at the office of DTI IV-A Regional Director Marilou Q. Toledo in Calamba, Laguna.

“Steel Corporation of the Philippines is admirable for undergoing this independent product testing on Galvalume 55. By voluntarily submitting its products for certification, they showed that the company is concerned on the quality and safety of its products. Roofing is part of the home, so it is important that these products are of the right standards in quality and safety to give assurance to our consumers”, explained DTI IV-A Regional Director Marilou Q. Toledo. “In behalf of DTI, we would like to extend our congratulations to Steel Corporation of the Philippines and the Philsteel Group of Companies for being the first to secure the Philippine Standard Quality Mark License based on PNS 67:2014” stated Director Toledo.

Under the BPS Philippine Standard (PS) Certification Scheme, a manufacturer obtains a license to use the Philippine Standard (PS) Quality and Safety Marks for its capability to consistently manufacture products in accordance with a specific Philippine National Standard (PNS) or an internationally accepted foreign standard. Conformity to standard is determined on the basis of satisfactory results of the assessment of the quality management system of the manufacturer’s production and conformance of product to requirements of specific standard.

“As the official and sole licensee of the Galvalume brand since we launched the product 20 years ago, Steelcorp has produced Galvalume 55 to conform to the highest quality international standards befitting the stringent process by BIEC International Inc. Securing the PS Mark is a testament to our decades-long commitment to offer proudly Philippine-made, global class roofing for all Filipinos. We are glad to be the first to give this assurance to Filipinos. Strict adherence to product standards in the Philippines is long overdue and should be an urgent concern for both manufacturers and customers. We express our strong support to DTI and the Bureau of Philippine Standards for implementing the product certification scheme to ensure quality and safety of products produced locally and those imported in the country,” says Philsteel Chairman and CEO Abeto A. Uy.

GALVALUME 55 is the first 55% aluminum and zinc alloy coated steel sheet manufactured in the Philippines by Steel Corporation of the Philippines, which prints the actual Total Coated Thickness on the sheet allowing the consumer to know exactly the thickness of the roofing sheet they are buying.

GALVALUME 55 is one of the breakthrough products from the Philsteel Group of Companies, which pioneered the introduction of roofing technologies in the Philippines using patented, cutting-edge technologies.GALVALUME® 55 is available at all Galvaforce Centers and leading hardware stores nationwide.

Education is not rare: PSOD and DLS-CSB together in mission to promote inclusive education

The Philippine Society for Orphan Disorders (PSOD) and the De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize their partnership for two programs aimed at promoting inclusive education last March 28, 2019 at Club Filipino Greenhills, San Juan City. 

Mr. Neil Parinas, VIce President for Lasallian Mission and Student Life, Mr. Terence Tiu, Dean and School Director of School for Professional and Continuing Education, Mr. Juan Benedicto Magdaraog, Patient Advocate of Philippine Society for Orphan Disorders, Bro. Dennis Magbanua FSC, President of the De La Salle-College of St. Benilde, Ms. Cynthia Magdaraog, President of Philippine Society for Orphan Disorders, Dr. Carmencita Padilla, Founder and Chairman of Philippine Society for Orphan Disorders, Mr. Robin Serrano, Vice President for Advancement  of the De La Salle-College of St. Benilde.

With the theme “Together in Mission,” the first MoU signing formalized the partnership of the two institutions in undertaking program initiatives to promote PSOD’s mission in upholding the primary concerns and welfare of Filipino individuals with rare disease under the auspices of PSOD. 

Ms. Cynthia Magdaraog, President of Philippine Society for Orphan Disorders, Bro. Dennis Magbanua FSC, President of the De La Salle-College of St. Benilde,Dr. Carmencita Padilla, Founder and Chairman of Philippine Society for Orphan Disorders, Mr. Robin Serrano, Vice President for Advancement  of the De La Salle-College of St. Benilde

Bro. Dennis Magbanua FSC, President of the De La Salle-College of St. Benilde

True to its mission of promoting the Benildean education that is unique in the spirit of inclusion and innovation, the DLS-CSB serves as the central network for the advocacy and effective coordination of all efforts to sustain a quality life for individuals with orphan disorders. 

Mr. Juan Benedicto Magdaraog, Patient Advocate of Philippine Society for Orphan Disorders

The event also marked the launch of “I am Rare Scholarship Fund” initiated by benefactor DLS- CSB alumnus Juan Dickoy Magdaraog who has a rare disease called Pompe. The “I am Rare Scholarship Fund,” which will be lodged to PSOD, endeavors to equip patients for future opportunities to improve their quality of life. PSOD will assess qualified scholars to be sent to college through the School for Professional and Continuing Education (SPaCE) that offers art diploma programs in Basic and Advanced Painting and Multimedia Arts like Digital Photography, Web Design and Video Editing among others. The Center for Inclusive Education (CIE) on the other hand will assist the PSOD scholars on social coaching to help students to easily adapt to  Benildean education and environment. 

Dr. Carmencita Padilla, Founder and Chairman of Philippine Society for Orphan Disorders

Ms. Cynthia Magdaraog, President of Philippine Society for Orphan Disorders

Gracing the ceremonial signing were officials, partners and advocates of both institutions including orphan disorder patients and their parents, members of Benildean Parents in Action and the media. The PSOD and DLS-CSB Partnership MoU was signed by PSOD Founder Dr. Carmencita David-Padilla, PSOD President Cynthia Magdaraog, DLS-CSB President Br. Dennis Magbanua FSC, and DLS-CSB Vice President for Advancement Robin Serrano. Meanwhile, the “I am Rare Scholarship Fund” MoU was signed by benefactor and DLS-CSB alumnus Juan Magdaraog, PSOD Founder Dr. Carmencita David-Padilla, PSOD President Cynthia Magdaraog, DLS-CSB President Br. Dennis Magbanua FSC, DLS-CSB Vice President for Advancement Robin Serrano, Vice President for Lasallian Mission and Student Life Neil Parinas, and Dean and School Director of SPaCE Terence Tiu. 

Brother PH ‘Travel in Style’ summer promo gives free bag for every purchase from Inkjet MFC series

‘Travel in Style’ with Brother Philippines as it welcomes the hot season with its latest promotion where customers can get a stylish backpack worth Php1,195 for every purchase of any participating machine models from Brother’s Inkjet multi-function centre series.

Buy any of the following participating machines at their suggested retail prices to get the free bag under Brother’s summer promo: 

- Colour Inkjet Printers DCP-T310 at P7,950 

- DCP-T510W at P9,450 

- DCP-T710W at P11,450 

- Colour Inkjet MFC printers MFC-T810W at P13,450 

- MFC-T910DW at P18,950.

What’s more, get any of these high performing, value-for-money Brother Inkjet machines with two free bottles of black ink worth P390 each (except DCP-T310).

Only purchases made at Brother authorized dealers nationwide from April 1 to May 31, 2019 are qualified for the promo. Customers may purchase a maximum of three machines per day during this period.

Customers must register at https://promotions.brother.com.ph/ to be able to claim the free item.

To learn more about the brand and its products, visit the Brother Philippines website at www.brother.com.ph, like its Facebook page (Facebook.com/BROTHERatyourside), and follow it on Twitter (@BROTHERPhils) and Instagram (@BrotherPhils).

8 Reasons To Buy The New Honor 8C

Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, and global smartphone e-brand Honor Philippines have teamed up to bring the Honor 8C exclusively to Shopee for convenient online purchase from now until April 6.

The Honor 8C comes with a powerful Snapdragon 632 Chipset Processor, long-lasting 4000 mAh battery, a mesmerizing ‘Cat’s Eye’ design, and a ‘DND’ or do not disturb Mode for maximum gameplay experience. But that’s not all that the Honor 8C has to offer.

Special camera effects, an App Twin feature, WiFi bridge and hassle-free online shopping exclusively on Shopee until April 6

Here are eight more reasons to buy the Honor 8C:

1. Camera Augmented Reality (AR) effects

The Honor 8C has built-in 13MP + 2MP dual rear cameras and an 8MP front camera. These don’t just upgrade the quality of the photos, but also allows users to add playful AR stickers to their pictures. Users also have the option to use animated backgrounds for their selfies. 

2. Powerful fingerprint scanner

Nowadays, fingerprint scanners can be found on almost all smartphones. The fingerprint scanner on the Honor 8C is conveniently located at the back for easy access. But it doesn’t just unlock the phone. It can also be used to answer calls, stop an alarm, pull down the notification bar, swipe through photos, and even take photos and videos. 

3. Dual-sim functionality including an App Twin feature

Most dual sim phones in the mid-range category only allow for one sim to be connected to 4G data. Not with the Honor 8C as both sims can be on 4G. The phone also allows users to have two accounts for an application via the App Twin feature. Users can have two numbers and accounts for apps like Whatsapp and Facebook on one phone. 

4. Single key navigation

Users can maximize the beautiful 6.26 inch FullView display by turning on the single key navigation in the settings. This takes out the navigation bar at the bottom allowing for a more unobstructed view of the display and easier single-handed use.

5. Blue light filter

Smartphones allow users to be ‘on’ all the time. However, prolonged exposure to screens have a negative effect on users’ health. The Honor 8C features a blue light filter, which reduces the strain on users’ eyes from continued screen exposure.

6. Smart resolution

Although the Honor 8C has a long-lasting 4000 mAh battery, it still has features that allow users to maximize the battery life further, like the smart resolution. Turning this on reduces the resolution from HD or HD+, allowing users to choose how to get the most out of their remaining juice.

7. WiFi bridge

Using a smartphone as a hotspot is not new, but the WiFi Bridge of Honor 8C allows users to turn their phones into hotspots, not by using up their data, but by sharing an existing WiFi network signal to others. 

8. Enjoy convenient online shopping exclusively on Shopee

The best reason for buying the Honor 8C is that it is available online exclusively on Shopee for hassle-free shopping until April 6. It also offers a lot of practical and advanced features for the affordable price of ₱7,999.

Visit the Honor official store at https://shopee.ph/honorph.officialstore. 

Download the Shopee app for free via the App Store or Google Play.

FUN IN THE SUMMERTIME! Century Park Hotel Offers Thirst-quenching Delights

Manila, Philippines – Summer has officially started with the scorching sun beating on our backs. All too soon, everyone is heading to the beach or pools or for majority who are in Metro Manila, they are doing the most accessible of all: getting their hands on cold drinks and desserts to beat the sweltering heat.

Palm Grove, the poolside outlet of Century Park Hotel, is all geared up for the sunny season with it’s Fun in the Summertime treats. 

Beat the summer sizzle with our thirst-quenching coolers and delectable snacks from P110 net and up from March 22 – May 31, 2019!

Kids and adults alike can enjoy ice-cold juices and classic Pinoy cold desserts of halo-halo (P250 net), mais con yelo (P180 net), and banana saba con yelo (P180 net) served on a coconut shell.

If you are in the mood for ice cream, you can customize your own sweet dish with options of 1, 2 or 4 scoops from P168net and up. Toppings such as choco chips, rice krispies, frosties, marshmallows, salted peanuts, roasted almonds, pistachio nuts, pink sea salt, chili flakes, cheese bites, pastries and fresh fruits are at your disposal.

You can also enjoy a buy 1, get 1 on beer, soft drinks, iced tea and bottled water.

Active kids and even adults can get hungry after a long swim at the hotel’s outdoor temperature-controlled pools. Palm Grove has prepared special snacks and boxes ranging from pasta, sandwiches, chicken tenders, fries and a whole lot more.

“It is already outdoor season in the country and we highly anticipate guests who will be longing for a day in our pools. We have prepared a number of cool treats and delicious snacks to cap off a perfect day at Century Park Hotel, we hope everyone enjoys what we have in store,” said Anthony Tan, CPH’s General Manager.

Launched in 1976, the Century Park Hotel remains as one of the finest hotels in Manila. It is owned and operated by Maranaw Hotels and Resort Corporation and enjoys a mix of local and international patrons. The renowned establishment has over 500 rooms in varied types and facilities for a complete dining and leisure experience. 

To know more about Century Park Hotel, visit www.centurypark.com or contactinformation@centurypark.com.ph and telephone number: (632) 528-8888.

Keep your home safe from dust and allergens with the Electrolux 2-in-1 Allergy ErgorapidoCordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner

The new Electrolux Allergy ErgorapidoZB3314AK vacuum cleaner is here to make your home allergen and dust free with an upgraded allergy filter, improved dust-pick up and increased battery performance. 

The ErgorapidoCordless Stick vacuum cleaner by Electrolux, a Swedish brand that has pioneered vacuum cleaner innovations globally, continues to impress as it receives updates that help make homes allergen and dust free.

Among its most exciting features is its upgraded allergy filter, which can capture 99.99% micro-dust particles and allergens, and a new nozzle sealing system for better pick-up of fine dust, pet allergens and bacteria. 

You can also clean for longer with the new Ergorapido. It comes with an improved high-performance lithium turbopowered battery for a longer running time of up to 50 minutes and a self-standing and charging stand. Simply grab it from the charging station and get started. When you put it back in the station, it automatically starts to charge so you always have it ready for action. 

The Ergorapido’s ergonomic design also makes cleaning easy. It has great maneuverability with its 180° Easysteer™ function that lets you swivel around corners or under tables. Its cordless and lightweight design also makes it easy to reach nooks and crannies and to vacuum walls and curtains. 

It also comes with a detachable hand-held unit allowing you to keep shelves and tables dust free, plus a motorized power brush with a wide nozzle great for picking up large crumbs and optimized for generating strong suction. DustSpotter LED Lights make sure you don’t miss a speck of dust in dark corners.

Stubborn hair and fibers that always get stuck on your vacuum brush can now also be removed with no sweat - the BrushRollClean™ feature gets rid of them with a push of a button. 

The Ergorapido vacuum cleaner also comes with a variety of attachments tailor fitted to your every cleaning need, making it truly multifunctional. 

Treat your cushions to a deep clean with the BedPro™ Mini attachment for effortless mattress cleaning and the Upholstery nozzle for sofas and car seats.

If you need reach, there’s the flexi hose and the long crevice nozzle which cleans the tightest nooks.

For people with allergies, pets or even just those with sensitive noses, the new generation Electrolux Allergy 2-in-1 Ergorapido ZB3314AK can turn your home into the dust-free paradise of your dreams. This affordable vacuum cleaner costs only P11,995.00 (SRP) and is available in leading appliance stores nationwide. 

For more information on Electrolux and its products, visit www.electrolux.com.ph and follow @ElectroluxPhilippines on Facebook and Instagram..

The new Electrolux Allergy Ergorapido ZB3314AK vacuum cleaner is here to make your home allergen and dust free with an upgraded allergy filter,  which can capture 99.99% micro-dust particles and allergens, a new nozzle sealing system for better pick-up of fine dust, pet allergens and bacteria, and an improved high-performance lithium turbopowered battery for a longer running time of 50minutes with a self-standing and charging stand. 

Electrolux shapes living for the better by reinventing taste, care and wellbeing experiences, making life more enjoyable and sustainable for millions of people. As a leading global appliance company, we place the consumer at the heart of everything we do. Through our brands, including Electrolux, AEG and Frigidaire, we sell more than 60 million household and professional products in more than 150 markets every year. In 2018, Electrolux had sales of SEK 124 billion and employed 54,000 people around the world. 

For more information go to www.electroluxgroup.com.ph. 

BAVI donates new flags to 3,000 public elementary schools nationwide

In keeping with its commitment to help instill a sense of nationalism among Filipinos, Bounty Agro Ventures Inc. (BAVI), the operator of the country’s largest rotisserie chicken chain, Chooks-to-Go, has recently completed its donation of 3,000 flags to public elementary schools nationwide.

In less than two months, BAVI has already turned over 163 flags at the Bagong Silangan Elementary School in Quezon City, 289 flags at the Sto. Tomas North Central School in Batangas, 536 flags at the Guiguinto Central School in Bulacan; 72 flags at the Andres Bonifacio Elementary School 1 in Bacolod City; 1,278 flags at the Don Eugenio Ladrido Memorial Elementary School in Lambunao, Iloilo; and 450 flags at the Davao City National High School. The 6’x3’-sized national flags were given to principals and administration heads of the recipient schools.

“We are grateful to be part of this endeavor that instills patriotism among our younger generations of future leaders. Helping grow not just a sense of respect for the flag but more importantly, love for country, is something that we are deeply committed to,” said Ronald Mascariñas, BAVI president and general manager.

Initially, BAVI has provided funding support to enable the Ayala Foundation Inc. (AFI) and its Maging Magiting flag campaign, to distribute 3,000 flag kits to public elementary schools nationwide, with the help of the Department of Education and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, to rekindle Filipino pride, foster love of country, and celebrate the lives of everyday Filipino heroes, especially among young students.

Section 5 of Republic Act 8491 or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines stipulates that the Philippine national flag shall be displayed in all public buildings, official residences, public plazas, and institutions of learning everyday throughout the year.

"Electing Deserving Leaders" is Aim of Go VOTE Movement

I believe that voting is as much an emotional act as it is an intellectual one.

Volunteer-based and non-profit group Go VOTE Movement, led by president and convenor Atty. Erickson Balmes, was launched April 1 held at the Victoria Sports Tower in Quezon City. 

Key stakeholders, government officers, non-government organizations (NGO), non- partisan groups, and the media, attended the advocacy-based gathering highlighting the role of the Filipinos in the upcoming mid-term elections. 

Importance of Voting 

The Go VOTE Movement believes that the vibrancy of any democracy is anchored on the full freedom of each individual to fully participate in the process of selecting their representatives in government. 

One of the basic human rights is the right to partake in the government of this country, directly or through freely chosen representatives" (Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights). 

It is essential that the results of the elections should reflect the true will of the people. This is the bedrock of any democracy. It gives greater meaning to the words of Article II, Section of the 1987 Constitution that "The Philippines is a democratic and republican state. Sovereignty resides in the people and all government authority emanates from them.” 

It becomes paramount that every voter should freely exercise their right to vote, and in the process to elect the leaders who they believe can serve them best as capacitated and dedicate public servants. 

What is the Go VOTE Movement?

The Go VOTE Movement (GVM) is a non-partisan, non-governmental organization of volunteers committed to the purpose of encouraging more registered Filipino voters to vote on May 13, 2019. 

GVM believes that the key to encouraging more of our country to vote on election day is via theconduct of FREE voter's education to all stakeholders all over the country. 

This volunteer-based and non-profit advocacy group is the product of a series of friendly discussion between Mr. Jerry Acuzar, the Chairperson of the Manuel Luis Quezon University, and then Department of Justice (DOJ) Undersecretary Erickson H. Balmes on elections and the seemingly low voter's turnout every election day. 

The exchange of ideas eventually metamorphosed into a collective vision that voter's education may be the viable way to encourage more of our countrymen to vote. They believed that it is necessary that every Filipino voter is apprised of their right of suffrage. 

After leaving government service, the paths of the prime movers of GVM crossed again, and on February 2019, vision met action and GVM was born. 

More importantly, their shared belief that every Filipino, regardless of affiliation or political orientation should Go Out and VOTE! And hence, the GVM battle cry "Ang Bawat Boto ay Karapatan, Katungkulan, at Kinabukasan", was born. 

More About the Advocacy 

The Go VOTE Movement have conducted their first Free Voter's Education Seminar to the members of the MLQU community last March 14, 2019. Since then, they have continued conducting free lectures around the Philippines. GVM will not dictate upon any of its participants who they should vote. 

"We will only train them on their rights and duties as voters and /or poll watchers but GVM truly respects their freedom of choice." Atty. Erickson Balmes, Go VOTE Movement. 

Ultimately, GVM believes that an educated voting population can transform a corrupted system of governance by electing deserving leaders with the political will to effect change in our society. 

"We further believe that,if by our humble efforts,the voter's turn-out for the 2019 mid- term elections will be larger than that of the 2013 mid-term elections,then we have done our job." President & Convenor, adds Balmes. 

Go VOTE Movement aims to be the country's premiere FREE election educational forum advocating free, honest, transparent, and accessible elections. They are committed to fulfilling a self-imposed mission to educate and disseminate information on the pertinent laws and rules on the conduct of elections in the Philippines to all sectors. 

Go VOTE Movement

Manuel L. Quezon University (MLQU)

916 F-R Hidalgo St., Quiapo Manila, Philippines

Mobile: 0945 348 3784 (Smart)

Mobile: 0916 279 8185 (Globe)

govotemovement@gmail.com

Xiaomi launches Mi 9 with AI triple camera for stunning photos in the Philippines

Xiaomi officially announced Mi 9, the company’s latest flagship that combines incredible performance with a stunning new design. Mi 9 runs the leading Qualcomm® SnapdragonTM 855 mobile platform, comes with a new AI triple camera containing the latest 48-megapixel Sony IMX586 sensor, and is the world’s first smartphone to feature 20W wireless charging. 

“Since its global launch last month, the Mi 9 has been receiving overwhelming critical acclaim from the most discerning opinion leaders in technology,” said Steven Shi, Head of Southeast Asia, Xiaomi. “It is an elegant beauty in form and a formidable beast in performance. Its unique combination of unique innovations and tempting pricing redefines the flagship category once again. The flagship should not necessarily cost a fortune,” he added. 

Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 mobile platform for ultimate flagship performance 

Powered by the newest generation Qualcomm Snapdragon 855, based on the 7nm manufacturing process, Mi 9 can achieve an Antutu benchmark score of over 380,000. The all- new Kryo 485 CPU has a maximum clock speed of 2.84GHz, with improved single-core performance of up to 45% over its predecessor, while the new Adreno 640 GPU gives up to a 20% boost. In addition, the fourth-generation AI Engine provides up to three times faster AI performance. Mi 9 is also equipped with LPDDR4x 2133MHz RAM. 

6.39” AMOLED display and all-curved holographic design 

Mi 9 has an all-curved back cover design, allowing it to fit comfortably in the hand. An advanced back cover color process gives Mi 9 a stylish holographic rainbow spectrum, so it looks different every time it is picked up. 

On the front, Mi 9 sports a 6.39-inch 19.5:9 Samsung AMOLED Dot Drop display. Under this display is a new and improved in-screen fingerprint sensor that unlocks the phone up to 25% faster than the previous generation, and works well even in low-light conditions. 

AIl triple camera, third-place world ranking on DxOMark 

Mi 9 is Xiaomi’s first flagship with an AI triple camera, with the main camera utilizing the latest 48-megapixel Sony IMX586 1/2′′ sensor. The AI triple camera combination of the 48-megapixel main camera, 16-megapixel ultra wide-angle camera, and a 12-megapixel telephoto camera gave Mi 9 a score of 107 by the authoritative DxOMark website, giving it a third-place world ranking of all tested smartphones. In addition, a video score of 99 puts it at number one on  DxOMark for video capture. In addition, Mi 9 now comes with new photo modes. 

World’s first 20W wireless charging; TÜV safe quick charging certification 

It has a large 3300mAh battery, featuring a fast charging solution for both wired and wireless charging. The 27W wired charging supports Qualcomm’s QC4+ standard, and enables Mi 9 to safely charge to 70% in just 30 minutes, and fully charge in 60 mins. To achieve this, Mi 9 contains significant innovations in wireless charging architecture. A new wireless charging coil enhances the wireless charging efficiency and stability of the Mi 9, so it can hit the highest 20W wireless charging at its peak. 

Other notable features and upgrades 

Thanks to innovations such as a high-voltage Smart PA amplifier and an accompanying 0.9cc large sound cavity, Mi 9 outputs amazing sound quality with powerful bass. Optimizations have also been made specifically for different scenarios such as video-watching and gaming purposes.Connectivity-wise, Mi 9 continues to use the well-received dual-frequency GPS from its predecessor to achieve ultra-precise positioning. 

The Mi 9 will come in Piano Black, Ocean Blue, and Lavander Violet. It will retail at Php 22,990 for the 6GB + 64GB, and Php 24,990 for the 6GB + 128GB. It will roll out on Mi Authorized Stores starting March 30, 2019, and will soon be available on Lazada. 

To know more about Xiaomi visit Mi.com and Mi Philippines Facebook page. 

DILG culminates Women’s Month Celebration by honoring every day women heroes together with the Philippine Commission on Women and Coca-Cola

The month-long celebration of women aptly ended with the gathering of the Philippines’ women agenda movement leaders – the Department of Interior and Local Government, the Philippine Commission on Women, and the world’s biggest and most women-supportive beverage brand, Coca-Cola Philippines.

Coca-Cola Philippines sustainability manager Joy Munsayac, DILG undersecretary Marjorie Jalosjos, Coca-Cola Philippines public affairs and communications manager Sam Sanchez, along with relevant partners in government celebrate Women’s Month at a film screening last March 28.

The Company recognizes the important role of women and their capabilities and potential as engines for development. Based on numerous studies, when women are given the opportunity to earn, they reinvest their income to the welfare of their families. 

The 5by20 STAR Program aims to empower women and promote their economic capabilities, and seize economic opportunities. We envision that economically empowered women would form part in the solution in breaking the cycle of poverty within families. We believe that women, given the right support and confidence, can make a positive impact, and make all the difference that the world needs.

During a special film screening of a fictional heroine, the beverage brand featured a short clip on the impact of their program, particularly the 5by20 Sari-Sari Store Training and Access to Resources (STAR) Program. The video underscored how the women, mostly mothers, became the heroes to their families by making ends meet with additional sources of income while being able to manage the household. Women reach their full potential when given a space that enables them to grow, women reach their full potential.

Coca-Cola Philippines president and general manager Winn Everhart stresses the importance of women for their contribution to economic development

“Coca-Cola several years back acknowledged the fact that there wasn’t gender equality in the world and in the workplace, and though of what can we do more to drive that empowerment, and drive that mission. Not only did we talk about it, we actually put a goal in place called the 5by20 initiative—5 million women empowered by the year 2020,” said Winn Everhart, president and general manager of Coca-Cola Philippines.

“What I can proudly say that the Philippines has lead the way. This is the preeminent market where Coca-Cola is invested in empowering women through our 5by20 program. We’re now turning over 150,000 women entrepreneurs in the Philippines, and we’ll be hitting our goal of 200,000 by next year. We’re one of the global leaders when it comes to women empowerment,” he added

The film screening was joined by top officials of the Philippine Commission on Women Commissioner Sandra Montaño and the Department of Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Marjorie Jalosjos.

DILG Undersecretary Marjorie Jalosjos shares her experiences as a woman and how important women are to society.

“Lagi ko pong sinasabi, hindi madali ang maging babae. Para kang superhero na kailangan magpalit-palit ng costume—minsan tindera, security guard, business woman, doktora, engineer, barangay captain, congresswoman, assistant secretary, kapatid, anak, nanay. We play very critical roles in society, so we keep our hopes, raise our children, and nurture our families,” said Jalosjos.

PCW Commissioner Sandra Montaño commends women for being the real superheroes in our lives.

“The real heroes of today are the women farmers who till the land so we can have food to eat; women fisherfolk, women civil servants, women lawyers and judges, medical experts, women entrepreneurs, scientists, our mothers, sisters, at tayong mga maria, tayong mga Juana. The Philippine Commission on Women commend all efforts from our partners in celebrating women, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, economic status and religion. Truly, we can make change work not only for women, but with women. Let us remember that championing the role of women does not end every March. It is an everyday goal and aspiration that women will not be left behind,” said Montaño.

“Women micro-retailers or the sari-sari store and carinderia owners that we see in every street, every corner, are our everyday superheroes. They are literally the hands that extend our brand to communities. However, over and above their role as a store manager, they also juggle the role of being moms, wives, sisters, caregivers, and home managers. As we reach the summit of our Women’s Month celebrations, may we see every day and appreciate the role of extraordinary women in our lives,” said Coca-Cola Philippines sustainability manager Joy Munsayac.

The beverage giant also announced its support for the planned all-women led run for the rehabilitation of Manila Bay during Earth Day in April. Spearheaded by DILG and PCW, the run will create a venue for women to be able to express their support for the rehabilitation and cleanup of the iconic waterfront.

The 5by20 STAR Program has evolved to cater to several sectors including women in agriculture, women in the Women Economic Empowerment Program of the Philippine Commission on Women, distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) through partnerships with the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration of the Department of Labor and Employment and the National Reintegration Commission of OFWs, beneficiaries of the government conditional cash transfer program or Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development – National Capital Region, Artisan Women of Tondo, and for women who are in disaster stricken areas. The program also includes women micro-entrepreneurs who will undergo mentoring, or the Kapatid Program of the Department of Trade and industry and the civic group GoNegosyo.

Coca-Cola, with their 19 manufacturing facilities in the Philippines, and over 10,000-strong labor force, is proactive in promoting women empowerment through the 5by20 initiative. 

The 5by20 STAR Program is part of a global initiative that aims to economically empower 5 million women by 2020. The Philippines has a local target of empowering 200,000 women since its launch in 2011.

The Coca-Cola 5by20 STAR Program is implemented in partnership with TESDA. The STAR Program is designed for women micro entrepreneurs who own and manage sari-saristores or carinderias. The Program addresses the barriers these women face and help them achieve business success. The STAR Program has three components: access to training, access to resources, and access to peer mentoring.

To date, the STAR Program has 390 accredited facilitators teaching and training women retailers to become better entrepreneurs. The STAR Program is being implemented in over 47 locations nationwide and has reached more than 140,000 women.