Beko parent company ranked as one of the world's most sustainable firm

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Beko's parent company, Arçelik A.Ş., the global leading consumer durables and electronics manufacturer, has for the second year in a row ranked on the Corporate Knights' 2022 Global 100 Index, coming in at 57th place.

Corporate Knights Inc (CK). is a media and research company focused on quantifying and animating sustainable economy drivers for decision-makers. Its best-known rankings include the Best 50 Corporate Citizens in Canada and the Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations. CK is also proud to be the first print business magazine and research firm in the world to be a Certified B Corp.

The list of awardees has been published annually by Corporate Knights since 2005 in recognition of companies that deliver superior financial performance and lead the race to zero emissions. Their methodology is based on up to 24 key performance indicators covering resource management, employee management, financial management, clean revenue and clean investment and supplier performance.

The 2022 Global 100 Index looks at the performance of almost 7,000 companies with more than $1 billion in revenues, taking into consideration their action on environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues.

And this year’s recognition came after Arçelik reiterated its commitments to energy transformation and a more sustainable future.

"We are delighted to rank on the Corporate Knights' 2022 Global 100 Index. As a business we understand we have a commitment and a responsibility to sustainability and this recognition continues to spur us on. At Arçelik, we've taken great steps on our sustainability journey and are continuing to. We are proud of what we have achieved with all our employees, and our revised commitments to Scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG emissions are a demonstration of that,” said Arçelik CEO Hakan Bulgurlu.

As part of Arçelik’s commitment to sustainability, Beko unveiled seven sustainable products including a washing machine/washer dryer, oven, tumble dryer, refrigerator, espresso coffee maker and dishwasher to help consumers reduce their impact on the environment. The innovative products use recycled materials such as PET bottles, fishing nets; bio-composites such as coffee residue and eggshells; as well as detergent saving technologies for sustainable living.

As Europe's leading appliance brand, Beko is always looking for new technologies that help preserve nature and allow people to live a healthy lifestyle.’

"As makers of appliances, we will help ensure a more sustainable future for the next generations. We are also eager to adapt our existing technologies to make all our appliances more environmentally friendly too," said Gürhan Günal, country manager of Beko Pilipinas Corporation.

For more information about Beko in the Philippines, go to http://bekopromos.ph or visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/bekoph.

ABOUT BEKO

Beko is the global home appliances brand of the Arçelik Group and belongs to the Koç Holding, one of the largest conglomerates in Europe. The brand has been in the Philippine Market for -six years and is currently available in select All Home, Anson’s, Asian Home Appliance, Automatic Center, Fair N Square, Goldtech, Great World, HAT, Lazada, Manila Imperial, Robinson’s, Savers, Shopee, SM Appliance and Western Appliance. This year, Beko will be made available soon in other appliance stores nationwide as it continues to expand its distribution to other retail channels. For information, follow @bekoph on Facebook and Instagram or go to http://www.beko.ph.

Beko, Beko Pilipinas, Beko Pilipinas Corporation, Arçelik, Home Appliances, European Appliances, Live Like A Pro

PayMaya makes government payments easier and more rewarding with Bills Bayad Rewards promo

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 Enjoy cashback rewards when you settle your SSS, PAG-IBIG, PRC, and BIR fees  

   

PayMaya is bringing Filipinos the convenience, safety, and time-saving benefits of paying for their fees and dues to the Social Security System (SSS), the Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund), the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) with the Bills Bayad Promo.  

   

From February 1 to March 31, customers who will pay for their Pag-IBIG, SSS, PRC, and BIR fees and dues for the first time using PayMaya can get a 10% cashback voucher. Meanwhile, existing customers who are paying their recurring fees using PayMaya can also enjoy a 5% cashback voucher monthly during the promo period. Users can get up to P200 cashback.  

   

"We are always looking for ways to make everyday transactions easier and more rewarding. These include encouraging more consumers to use digital payments when transacting with national government agencies. We want to give users a more convenient experience as we also help promote ease of doing business with the government," said Pepe Torres, Chief Marketing Officer at PayMaya.   

   

Paying fees and dues to the four participating national government agencies is easy - here are the different channels where you can pay using PayMaya:   

• SSS – pay for your social security contributions via the PayMaya app and the SSS mobile app  
• Pag-IBIG – remit your regular housing amortizations via the PayMaya app and the Pag-IBIG website  
• PRC – pay for your professional fees via the commission’s website   
• BIR – settle your taxes and fees via the PayMaya app.   

 

On top of the cashback rewards, individuals who will sign up and upgrade their account can enjoy a P100 voucher when they use the code BILLSBAYAD upon registration.   

   

So if you have government fees and dues to pay—pay now with PayMaya and enjoy the sweet benefits of getting your money back! Basta government payments, pay it with PayMaya!   

   

PayMaya is the only end-to-end digital payments ecosystem enabler in the Philippines, with platforms and services that cut across consumers, merchants, communities, and government. It provides more than 41 million Filipinos access to financial services through its consumer platforms. Customers can conveniently pay, add money, cash out or remit through its over 380,000 digital touchpoints nationwide.     

    

Its Smart Padala by PayMaya network of over 60,000 partner agent touchpoints serves as last-mile digital financial hubs in communities, providing the unbanked and underserved access to digital services. Through its enterprise business, it is the largest digital payments processor for key industries in the country, including "every day" merchants such as the largest retail, food, gas, and eCommerce merchants, as well as government agencies and units.     

    

To know more about PayMaya's products and services, visit www.PayMaya.com or follow @PayMayaOfficial on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For more information on Smart Padala, visit https://smartpadala.ph/   

 

To Push E-Commerce Forward, Developing Tech Leaders is Key

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Shopee Nurtures Top Tech Talent with the Global Leaders Program

The continued rise of Southeast Asia’s “digital decade”, now projected to gross around $1 trillion across the region by 2030, has increased the demand for tech talents who can drive the digital economy. Amidst this growing digital landscape, Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, continues to seek for the next generation of industry leaders through the Global Leaders Program (GLP).

The Shopee Global Leaders Program is a 2-year graduate program consisting of four 6-month local and overseas rotations. It is designed for highly enthusiastic and ambitious young Filipino talents who have the potential to boost the country’s e-commerce industry. Final-year students or young professionals with up to two years of working experience can apply for GLP and be part of a structured learning and development program. Participants will also receive dedicated mentorship from Shopee leaders.

Martin Yu, Director at Shopee Philippines, said, “Digital transformation has been an ongoing focus in several key economic sectors. As a result, the demand for tech talent has been on the rise in recent years. Shopee remains committed to developing the next generation of talents in the Philippines through immersive training and mentorship initiatives like the Global Leaders Program. We will continue to come up with various programs that aim to value-add to the Philippines’ digital economy.”

Now in its 4th year, the program continues to provide its participants with eye-opening experiences and regional exposure

CJ, a GLP participant, shares why she chose Shopee to grow her career in e-commerce. “Shopee has been taking big strides to enhance the user experience and keep up with the recent changes in the retail market industry. It’s evident that the company is constantly growing bigger, better, and faster—and I want to be part of this growth.”

Among the many interesting components of the GLP, CJ says what caught her attention the most was the regional experience and exposure it offers. “Working with other teams from various countries is a great opportunity to learn about different cultures and gain new perspectives and insights that can help further the industry in our country.”

Currently working with Shopee’s Business Development team, CJ’s exposure to different functions allowed her to grow, adapt and learn new things every day. “I am constantly pushed and supported to become a better version of myself every day. The projects that I handle allow me to develop problem-solving, critical thinking, good leadership, and proper time management skills. Seeing how e-commerce campaigns are brought to life, and how people communicate and collaborate to achieve success regularly definitely inspire me to keep growing and eventually contribute.”

CJ takes pride in being part of the GLP. “If you want to become a future tech leader and be part of the growing digital economy in the Philippines, the Global Leaders Program is the best way to jumpstart your dream. You get the best training and development possible: close mentorship from Senior Management, rotating stints in different markets, and you get to drive crucial projects across the business. The program is truly for those who are willing to push themselves every day to be better and keep growing. I am grateful and humbled to be part of all this.”

Are you an aspiring tech leader and interested in learning about the e-commerce industry? Apply to be part of Shopee’s Global Leaders Program starting February 14, 2022. For more information about the program, visit https://careers.shopee.ph/GLP.

Bayanihan in the midst of a pandemic: The Coca-Cola Foundation, Coca-Cola Philippines contribute aid to Filipinos impacted by Super Typhoon Odette

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Responding to the call for aid following the devastation caused by Super Typhoon Odette in the Philippines in December 2021, The Coca-Cola Foundation, the global philanthropic arm of The Coca-Cola Company, has extended relief assistance to thousands of Filipinos across six provinces of the country.

Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines Inc. partnered with Synergeia Foundation to provide residents of Barangay Tiling, Cauayan, Negros Occidental with relief goods, ensuring that they have the support they need in the aftermath of the typhoon.

The Coca-Cola Foundation has awarded a grant of US$400,000 to CBCP Caritas Filipinas Foundation to support the disaster relief efforts of nine dioceses in the Visayas and Mindanao. The grant will provide food, shelter repair kits, solar lamps, and hygiene kits to 4,031 families affected by the typhoon in Bohol, Leyte, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Palawan, and Surigao del Norte.

Meanwhile, the local Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines has provided humanitarian aid to 5,420 families, donating P5.8 million for food packs, hygiene kits, shelter or roof repair kits, drinking water, and water filtration kits to help them cope in the aftermath of the typhoon. Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines has channeled its assistance through its NGO partners Water and Life Philippines, World Wildlife Fund-Philippines, Caritas-Manila, Philippine Business for Social Progress, Gawad Kalinga, World Vision, Synergeia Foundation, and Waves 4 Water.

“The Coca-Cola Foundation is resolute in its commitment to communities by extending humanitarian aid to those in need,” says Saadia Madsbjerg, President of The Coca-Cola Foundation. “We recognize the devastating impact of natural disasters and the pandemic especially on vulnerable communities with limited resources.”

Cecile Alcantara, President of Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, adds: “Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines and its trusted partners will continue to serve Filipinos not only through our programs on waste management, water stewardship, education, and youth and women empowerment but also through our long-held commitment to disaster relief. The resilience of a Filipino is always strengthened when we come together—and we are here to give our unrelenting support, one day at a time.”

Continuous support for vulnerable communities

In its 110-year journey of refreshing Filipinos and uplifting vulnerable communities, Coca-Cola Philippines remains dedicated to supporting disaster relief operations for families affected by natural calamities.

Coca-Cola Philippines’ initiative in the past month has amounted to a total of more than P10.8 million worth of disaster relief funds for typhoon victims, including employees in the Visayas and Mindanao.

“Circumstances such as typhoons and the pandemic continue to affect Filipinos across the archipelago, and this is why it is critical for us at Coca-Cola Philippines that we provide continuous support to communities whenever we can,” shares Tony del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines and VP for Franchise Operations of the ASEAN and South Pacific-East Asia Region. “By extending humanitarian aid, we continue to prioritize the immediate needs and well-being of those affected the most.

”World Wildlife Fund Philippines and Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF), funded by Coca- Cola Foundation Philippines Inc., distributed sacks of rice and relief goods to support residents of Anajawan Island in Surigao del Norte.

Beverage donations, employee support

In the aftermath of the typhoon, Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc. (CCBPI)—the company’s bottling arm in the country—also mobilized its resources to distribute nearly 70,000 liters of Wilkins drinking water for residents in affected provinces and cities. Moreover, CCBPI made sure that affected employees were given assistance through a P5-million emergency fund, while also providing them with over 70,000 liters of drinking water and around P800,000 worth of grocery items.

Staying true to their People First commitment, CCBPI’s employees from other parts of the country launched an internal donation drive and were able to collect more than P600,000 to help their fellow associates in the Visayas and Mindanao whose homes were destroyed by the typhoon.

On top of this, CCBPI is working with the local government of Mandaue City in Cebu toward the deployment of a SETA machine (a mobile water treatment equipment that processes water to make it potable) in evacuation sites and communities in Marawi, Davao del Sur, and Bicol.

“Our commitment has always been uplifting the well-being not only of our consumers but the employees behind the work we do,” said Gareth McGeown, President and CEO of CCBPI. “It is truly heartwarming to see CCBPI’s employees come together despite the limitations and challenges posed by the typhoon. Their dedication to helping those in need is a testament to our People First commitment–that through our collective effort, we are able to uplift one another even in times of crisis.”

PAWS launches 'Kapon for all pets' to solve stray problem

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The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) is non-profit, non-government, volunteer-based organization dedicated to the promotion of kind treatment to animals and the prevention of animal cruelty through humane education.

PAWS pushes its newest campaign “Kapon for All Pets” program.

Kapon, neutering male/female cats or dogs, is a better way to show that you are an animal lover and responsible pet owner, taking care of their overall health.

The root of the problem: not spaying your pets

Many communities all over the country have long dealt with the issue of stray dogs and cats. For many years, the only programs that the local government units (LGUs) have in place are impounding activities and vaccination drives. Unfortunately, these measures only scratch the surface of the issue and do not preventively address the problem of homeless animals at its root.

Strays come from owned pets. Pets get pregnant or get other pets pregnant and once they give birth, people give the puppies and kittens away. There are always takers for the puppies but when they are all grown up, sometimes they end up on the streets.

Spay-Neuter (SN) programs for stray dogs also do not address the problem of stray dogs who end up sick, with a contagious skin problem, or with transmissible venereal tumor since no one really brings them to the vet. The SN groups for stray dogs quickly realized that they are to run as "mini-shelters" themselves, and so they end up bringing the sick dogs to the vet. The SN groups for stray dogs will eventually run out of steam, enthusiasm, manpower, and funding, especially as long as owned pets keep reproducing. Owned pets, therefore, must be spayed or neutered to solve the problem of pet homelessness for the long term.

As part of its mission to prevent cruelty to animals and to offer sustainable solutions to the issue of stray dogs and cats in communities, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) has long promoted Spay-Neuter (Kapon) programs for companion animals. Since 2009, PAWS operates a low-cost spay-neuter clinic in Quezon City and gives free spay-neuter to indigent pet owners. In addition, its “KabaliCAT” project implements Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-and-Release (TNR) activities for managing stray cats in neighborhoods. Also, all dogs and cats that are available for adoption from PAWS’ animal shelter are spayed/neutered.

PAWS’ newest initiative: ‘Kapon for all Pets’

PAWS’ newest campaign is its “Kapon for All Pets” program which proposes incentives to be offered by local government units to veterinary clinics operating within their cities and municipalities. A three-way partnership between PAWS and participating LGUs, the program seeks to provide free or affordable kapon procedures for pets owned by the LGUs’ constituents.

Participating veterinary clinics within the city or municipality will be working alongside the local government to implement the program. The LGUs that will take part in the program will be included on PAWS’ List of Progressive Kapon-friendly Cities and Municipalities, a list that the organization will be putting out on all of their social media channels in celebration of World Spay Day on February 22, 2022. The first ten (10) LGUs to implement the Kapon for All Pets fiscal and non-fiscal incentives will receive P50,000 worth of surgery materials from PAWS and a plaque of recognition as a “Pioneer KAPON FOR ALL PETS LGU Partner”.

PAWS believes that providing free or affordable kapon for pets is the long-term and sustainable solution to pet homelessness. It is not having bigger pounds, turning pounds into shelters, or putting up new signages proclaiming that a building is now an ‘animal rehabilitation center’.

“Kapon for All Pets” is proof that private-public partnerships can promote animal welfare, which is directly connected to public health issues and the eradication of rabies. LGUs that are interested to work with PAWS to implement the “Kapon for All Pets” campaign within their jurisdiction may email PAWS’ Executive Director, Anna Cabrera at kapon@paws.org.ph.

Tim Hortons Philippines partners with Nestlé to launch plant-based menu

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Something to help you in your New Year’s resolution to eat healthier in 2022. Tim Hortons Philippines partners with Nestlé Professional Philippines in its plant-based movement to launch the HARVEST GOURMET® plant-based products. 

Tim Hortons Philippines has added two delicious offerings to its menu: the meat-free Classic Barbecue Sensational® Burger, and meat-free Grilled Quesadilla with Barbecue Sauce. Launched in all 31 Tim Hortons Philippines stores just last month and available for a limited time only, these offerings provide consumers more options and access to plant-based products—and is a welcome addition for anyone committed to eating better and healthier for the new year.

The meat-free Classic Barbecue Sensational Burger contains HARVEST GOURMET® patty, barbecue dressing, fresh tomato, onion, lettuce, and cheese, sandwiched in a brioche bun, and is priced reasonably at P230. The Grilled Quesadilla with Barbecue Sauce uses HARVEST GOURMET® Schnitzel pieces, enveloped in soft grilled tortilla with barbecue dressing, onion, green peppers, and cheese, priced at P190, giving consumers an affordable meat-free alternative. Although they are meat-free, a lot of consumers have said they could not tell the difference from meat.

With the growing demand for plant-based food, Tim Hortons Philippines and Nestlé Professional, the foodservice unit of Nestlé Philippines, have joined forces to develop this meat-free menu without compromise on taste. As more Filipino consumers are consciously making more informed food choices based on health and environmental reasons, Tim Hortons and Nestlé are tapping this growing trend of ‘Flexitarian’ consumers who are looking for healthier alternatives and choosing to reduce their meat intake with plant-based food. This trend has also been accelerated by the current COVID-19 pandemic that has led people worldwide to be more conscious of their health and the impact of food sourcing on the environment.

“We are very proud of our collaboration with Nestlé Professional and HARVEST GOURMET®, and we are excited to offer our customers the healthy, nutritious, tasty meat alternatives they seek. At Tim Hortons, we are committed to serving high-quality and great-tasting food and beverages every day, while reducing our environmental footprint. The plant-based menus are a tasty alternative for everyone who would like a substitute for animal meat. These menus are about providing more choices to our guests, who are asking for a variety of options and more plant-based products. We are confident that our guests will love our plant-based menus,” said Rickie Yap, Tim Hortons Philippines President and CEO.

“What we are seeing is that the demand for plant-based food is not just a short-term food trend anymore, but really a growing social movement for sustainability, and that’s why we are really calling the F&B industry to join us in this plant-based movement, and we are so proud to have Tim Hortons joining us in this call. We believe the F&B community has a leading role to play in driving this change,” said Alexander Ong Oh, Business Executive Officer of Nestlé Professional Philippines.

“Every plant-based menu added and served in restaurants and hotels will be a step closer towards promoting not just a healthier lifestyle, but the sustainability of our planet. And we are excited to leverage our global knowledge and latest technology in plant-based food to bring to our customers and to Filipino consumers products that deliver on health, taste, and texture. Today, it is indeed possible already to enjoy plant-based food without compromise. I invite everyone to taste it to believe,” added Oh.

To stay updated with the latest Tim Hortons Philippines news and for takeout & delivery options, you may follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or visit their website.

HARVEST GOURMET® products are also available through Nestlé Professional Philippines and e-commerce partners: Rare Food Shop, Lazada, Shopee, and Wholemart PH.

For more information on HARVEST GOURMET® products, please visit the official Nestlé Professional Philippines Facebook page.

About HARVEST GOURMET®

HARVEST GOURMET® is committed to creating delicious meat alternatives made predominantly from plants. Manufactured in Asia under strict Nestlé food safety standards, we offer a range of vegetarian and vegan products without compromise on nutrition, taste, and texture.

About Restaurant Brands International Inc.

Restaurant Brands International Inc. is one of the world's largest quick service restaurant companies with more than $35 billion in annual system-wide sales and over 28,000 restaurants in more than 100 countries. RBI owns four of the world's most prominent and iconic quick service restaurant brands – TIM HORTONS®, BURGER KING®, POPEYES® and FIREHOUSE SUBS®. These independently operated brands have been serving their respective guests, franchisees, and communities for decades. Through its Restaurant Brands for Good framework, RBI is improving sustainable outcomes related to its food, the planet, and people and communities.

About TIM HORTONS®

TIM HORTONS® is one of North America’s largest restaurant chains operating in the quick service segment. Founded as a single location in Canada in 1964, Tim Hortons appeals to a broad range of consumer tastes, with a menu that includes premium coffee, hot and cold specialty drinks (including lattes, cappuccinos, and espresso shots), specialty teas and fruit smoothies, fresh baked goods, grilled Panini and classic sandwiches, wraps, soups, prepared foods, and other food products. Tim Hortons has more than 4,800 systemwide restaurants located in Canada, the United States, and around the world. To learn more about the Tim Hortons brand, please visit the Tim Hortons® brand website at www.timhortons.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

About Nestlé Professional

Nestlé Professional® is the global leader in branded hot and cold beverage and food solutions. We are passionate about serving the out of home industry and “Making More Possible” for our food service partners. We leverage our global reach to bring knowledge and customized solutions to help our customers delight their consumers.

About Nestlé Philippines

Over a hundred years after it first started operations in the country, Nestlé Philippines, Inc. (NPI) today is a robust and stable organization, proud of its role in bringing high-quality food and beverage throughout the stages of the Filipino consumers’ lives. The Company employs more than 3,200 men and women nationwide and is among the country’s Top 10 Corporations.

Driven by its purpose of enhancing quality of life and contributing to a healthier future, Nestlé today produces and markets products under some of the country’s trusted brands such as NESCAFE, NIDO, MILO, NESTEA, MAGGI, BEAR BRAND, NESTLÉ, and PURINA, among others. Its product range has expanded to include coffee, milk, beverages, non-dairy creamer, food, infant nutrition, ice cream and chilled dairy, breakfast cereals, confectionery, and pet care.

GlobalData: Philippines an ideal hyperscaler hub

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Hyperscalers looking for geographic expansion should consider the Philippines for its strong legacy in the business process outsourcing (BPO) industry, future of work programs, and hyperscale roadmap—a study conducted by data analytics and consulting company GlobalData showed.

According to the research titled ‘Why the Philippines Should Be the Next Destination for Hyperscalers,’ the country is the next logical destination for global tech giants due to several factors such as its success in terms of outsourcing, government support, business climate, accelerated cloud adoption, and significant steps for sustainability.

The study cited that the Philippines has a stable and evolving BPO sector as one of the global leaders in BPO, which currently holds about 10 to 15 percent of the global market and an annual growth rate of 10 percent over the past decade.

This entails a strong demand for cloud and artificial intelligence, driven by the shift of companies to remote working setup and the use of data and analytics to understand the online customer journey.

More enterprises in the country are also seen to move to the cloud with the adoption of hybrid operations and vertical applications, enabled by continuous network expansion efforts through 5G and fiber led by the PLDT Group. This is said to “drive the cloud market in the Philippines to grow solidly to US$ 2.8 billion in 2025.”

The PLDT Group has been augmenting its capabilities to strengthen the country’s global connectivity infrastructure and be the next preferred geographic destination of hyperscalers in the Asia-Pacific region.

Likewise, it has been leading various industry initiatives including the launch of commercial mobile 5G last year, which now has over 6,000 sites, to provide the best connectivity experience to its customers.

Moreover, the group also owns 615,000 kilometers fiber optic cables spread across the country to date, as it also marks its domination of the submarine cable capacities terminating in the Philippines.

In terms of sustainability, the group has implemented comprehensive sustainability programs, in partnership with Meralco and the energy department, with a focus on reducing its carbon footprint and improving environmental conservation.

Its key sustainability initiatives include its target to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030 by reducing carbon emissions, extending the use of renewable energy; and expanding investment in environmental projects.

“The digital economy in the Southeast Asian region is clearly at the cusp of unprecedented growth, and the Philippines is leading the way and growing the fastest,” said Gary Ignacio, PLDT Enterprise VP & Sector Head for Strategic Business Development, citing an excerpt from a recent market research report that tackled internet economy growth in the region.

“As such, the PLDT Group continues to invest heavily on network and IT infrastructure, as we anticipate the hyperscalers’ momentum to further build up in this part of the world. We’re beefing up our international capacities for full hyperscale readiness, with our investments on new cable systems such as Jupiter, APRICOT and the Asia Direct Cable. We’re also ramping up on our data center capacity build, which includes a plan to build a world-class hyperscale data center facility in the country,” Ignacio added.

Meanwhile, the study further mentioned that 29 percent of the businesses they surveyed are considering edge computing within the next three years, which represents another major opportunity for hyperscalers and telecommunication providers.

“Many businesses need the speed and agility of hyperscale solutions, ideally with the security and regulatory compliance that only locally hosted applications can offer to the various industry verticals operating in the Philippines,” the research indicated.

Moreover, the growing support of the government to develop the hyperscaler sector is helping create the right environment to further drive market traction and growth, with implementation of incentives program for hyperscalers expanding their operations in the Philippines, passage of relevant laws on data privacy and security, and the thrust for a cloud-first strategy across the public sector, among others.

For more information, visit pldtenterprise.com.

6 million nurses needed amid the pandemic says World Health Organization

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Nurses in the Philippines can take advantage of the rising demand for their services around the world by pursuing a lucrative and fulfilling career abroad.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the global shortage of nurses—a challenge that the medical industry has been dealing with since 2016. According to the “State of the World’s Nursing”, a report released by the World Health Organization, there was a global shortage of 5.9 million nurses in 2018, a statistic which has been highly exacerbated during the pandemic.

Now more than ever, the world needs nurses – at least 6 million – to fill the global shortage, and consequently meet the global development goals on health, which are to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being at all ages, including the provision of universal health coverage.

With the increased demand for nurses in various parts of the world, Filipino nurses who are aspiring to work abroad can seize this opportunity to finally fulfill their dreams of having a lucrative and successful career abroad. While applicants may think that it takes a lot of paperwork to get started on applying for a position overseas, TrueProfile.io, a platform that provides Filipino healthcare professionals around the world with tools they need to secure a lucrative career abroad, offers everything that Filipino healthcare workers need to make the move abroad. Some of the services that are hosted on the TrueProfile.io platform include international job opportunities, document verification, licensing services, English language training and exclusive informational resources.

To get started, aspiring healthcare workers must collect all the basic requirements which include either a 1x1 or 2x2 ID picture, PSA-authenticated birth certificate, resume, college diploma, transcript of records, employer contract, marriage contract (if applicable), NBI clearance, passport (valid for at least six months), as well as license and certifications.

Next, since many foreign employers will want to make sure all these documents are authentic and valid, applicants must have their credentials verified. This step can easily be done with the help of TrueProfile.io. By signing up to become a member, TrueProfile.io offers its members with a number of career solutions including a free digital CV that can be shared with employers, regulators and recruiters and can also be showcased on social media.

For interested applicants, simply create an account on TrueProfile (https://member.trueprofile.io/register), build a myTrueProfile page, and then set contact settings to the ‘Recommended’ option in order to attract new career opportunities.

To know more, visit https://www.trueprofile.io/

About TrueProfile.io

TrueProfile.io works with employers and international job applicants to enhance human resource processes through a fully digital, on-demand Primary Source Verification (PSV) solution. TrueProfile.io removes the friction of ever-repetitive background checks and replaces it with a broadly accepted standard that connects applicants with employers in a secured and trusted environment. We do this by using cutting-edge blockchain technology to securely verify applicant qualifications for prospective employers. The PSV process ensures that all of the candidates’ credentials are authentic and issued by an accredited institution.

TrueProfile.io is part of the DataFlow Group, a leading global provider of specialized PSV solutions, background screening and immigration compliance services. Headquartered in Dubai (United Arab Emirates), the DataFlow Group has been delivering PSV services to regulators and governments in Asia and Europe since 2006.

https://www.trueprofile.io/

Angelica, Loisa, Barbie, Maris, and Elisse explore why's of heartbreak in "The Goodbye Girl"

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iWantTFC’s newest original series streams worldwide on February 14

Why aren’t we enough for the people we love? Why do they leave us or don’t love us back?

Angelica Panganiban explores the why’s of heartbreak in iWantTFC’s original series "The Goodbye Girl” with Loisa Andalio, Barbie Imperial, Maris Racal, and Elisse Joson as they navigate their journey to healing after facing rejection, indifference, and pain.

Directed by Derick Cabrido, this six-episode series is iWantTFC’s Valentine’s Day offering, streaming worldwide exclusively on the iWantTFC app and website on February 14, with new episodes dropping daily.

Based on the book of the same name by best-selling author Noreen Capili, “The Goodbye Girl” illustrates the five types of heartbroken women while sharing valuable lessons on how to conquer heartbreak and coming out of it stronger, wiser, and better.

Directed by Derick Cabrido, this six-episode series is iWantTFC’s Valentine’s Day offering, streaming worldwide exclusively on the iWantTFC app and website on February 14, with new episodes dropping daily.

The show is narrated by Yanna (Angelica), a financial advisor-turned-author whose world crumbles when she comes home to her husband, Y (RK Bagatsing), who announces he will be leaving her for his one great love. Yanna immediately gets drunk and hops on social media to livestream her miserable situation. Her relatable story goes viral overnight, and she becomes known as “The Goodbye Girl.”

Yanna finds her new purpose in life, which is to give online advice to people who have gone through the same thing. One day, she gets a book deal from a charming publisher named Jeff (JC De Vera) to write about the stories her followers have shared with her and the advice she’s given them.

Meet Mara (Loisa), “The Clueless Girl,” an actress who seems to have everything but can’t figure out why no one is willing to stay with her. Her ex-boyfriends have dumped her for no obvious reason – not even a third party – including her most recent one, Gab (Ronnie Alonte). Why do men fall in love with her quickly, but dump her just as fast?

Kiera (Barbie), meanwhile, is “The Other Girl” who becomes dissatisfied with being the mistress to Franco (Turs Daza), a married man. When she realizes that he may never fully commit to her, Kiera befriends his wife to get to know the “competition,” only to discover that she is just one of the many women being strung along by Franco.

Ria (Maris), “The Bitter Hopia,” seems to be getting mixed signals in her relationship with band member Caio (Rico Blanco). Everything about them is casual – the sex, the friendship, the connection – but she keeps hoping for more. Is he just not capable of giving love, or is she the problem?

Julia (Elisse), “The Legally Blind,” is a hopeful bride-to-be. She knows her fiancé Ean (Joshua Colet) is a womanizer, but believes he is only making the most out of his remaining bachelor days. She puts up with his behavior as he promises her he will stop having affairs with other women after they get married.

Produced by Dreamscape Entertainment and Clever Minds Inc., “The Goodbye Girl” streams on February 14, with a new episode dropping daily on the iWantTFC app (iOs and Android) and website (iwanttfc.com). Enjoy watching iWantTFC on a bigger screen through select devices on VEWD, ROKU and Amazon Fire streaming devices, Android TV, select Samsung Smart TV models, Telstra TV (in Australia), and VIDAA for select countries. iWantTFC is also available via Chromecast and Airplay. For the complete list of compatible devices, sign-in instructions, and account activation, visit https://iwanttfc.com/help#tfc-on-smart-tv.

For updates, like www.facebook.com/iWantTFC and follow @iwanttfc on Twitter and Instagram, and subscribe to www.youtube.com/iWantTFC. For inquiries and concerns about the service, users can also send a message on iWantTFC’s Facebook page or e-mail support@iwanttfc.com.

Back to basics: Family Resolutions to Keep This 2022

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What makes the New Year so special, more than anything, is hope. It’s the promise of a new beginning; a signifier that we are given another chance; that we can still better ourselves and our families.

When it comes to resolutions, many tend to go overboard and list things that are difficult to sustain. No need to fret. It is never too late to redo yours, and to come up with simpler yet fundamental intentions.

Quality time as a love language

It’s no secret that technology is a parent’s best friend, especially when it comes to keeping the kids preoccupied while you’re trying to be productive. While there is nothing wrong with it, it’s still of utmost importance to unplug your devices every now and then and really connect with them on a regular basis.

You can’t underestimate the importance of devoting undivided attention to your children. Sharing meals, watching movies, or even having game nights are non-grandiose yet very meaningful ways to show you love them.

You can also include them in your exercise routine. Perhaps take them for an afternoon jog, or teach them how to swim close by. These and more doubles as bonding time for the family — allowing you to stay fit and active, while creating the most priceless of memories.

Family, friends, and fresh air

Being cooped up indoors all the time can not only take a toll on your kids’ development, but on your own mental and emotional health as well. So whenever possible and when you think it’s safe, it won’t hurt to take your kids to see other people and to experience other sceneries.

Mask up, and you can take your kids for morning or afternoon walks at the park, or tell them all about your glory days, al fresco style, in the gardens of your community. Give them some childhood memories they can fondly look back to when they grow up.

Instilling responsibility with household chores

It’s never too early to teach kids the importance of being responsible, and one way to do that is to allow them to take part in household chores. Not only does it improve their motor-eye coordination skills, but it also lays out a foundation for them in terms of managing a home and managing themselves in general.

You can start by selecting a specific room for them to clean and maintain. It can be their bedroom or designated play area.

Family-centric living spaces

SM Development Corporation (SMDC) understands parenting is definitely no easy feat, but residing in a community designed specifically for raising families can, without a doubt, be of great help to you.

It’s Spring Residences in Bicutan, Parañaque City that has suites uniquely created for all of your family’s needs. The community features several mid-rise towers and boasts of two efficiently laid-out bedroom units, as well as spacious living areas which you can design and modify however you please.

It also comes with luxurious amenities that you and your children can enjoy. Take vigorous laps in the adult-size pool after a long day of work, while the kids frolic in the kiddie pool. Fun and safety is guaranteed, with a play area they can run around and make friends in. The community also has 24-hour security to assure you have safe spaces to share with your family.

Strategically situated beside SM City Bicutan, Spring Residences also provides quick-and-easy access to restaurants, shopping, and more. With its close proximity to the Skyway and the future Metro Manila Subway station in Paranaque, you are granted the convenience of being close to the airport and major business districts.

Moving into Spring Residences will surely make a fulfilling year for you, with all your family’s new year’s resolutions ticked off line-by-line. SMDC offers friendly payment terms on top of its affordable ready-for-occupancy (RFO) units you and your family can immediately start a life in.

Regardless of what your family goals are this 2022, remember that the most important step is to start. Give rise to a new beginning at Spring Residences.

For more information about SMDC’s Spring Residences, visit www.smdc.com/properties/spring-residences/

 

About SM Development Corporation (SMDC)

SMDC is the largest and fastest-growing real estate developer in the Philippines. Championing perfectly integrated commercial and residential environments, SMDC provides every Filipino and its investors access to a sustainable and attainable cosmopolitan lifestyle. Through masterfully planned and award-winning, complete developments, SMDC has been providing the dream homes of Filipinos in Metro Manila and other key cities in the Philippines

 

 

Jollibee mascots transform into 'JolliBots' in new Jolly Kiddie Meal toys

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This February, playtimes are made more exciting as Jollibee introduces the JolliBots—a new set of Jolly Kiddie Meal toys featuring Jollibee mascots in a robot-themed concept!

The latest toy lineup from the no. 1 fast-food chain allows kids to play with their favorite Jollibee mascots and have them transform into the products they represent.

See Jollibee mascots transform into your favorite Jollibee products with the latest Jolly Kiddie Meal toys, the JolliBots!

Jolly kids and kids-at-heart can retract both arms of the Chickenjoy Bucket and flip its lid to reveal Jollibee. They can also move the upper corners of the Jolly Spaghetti box to see Hetty inside. Meanwhile, the fries from the robotized Jolly Crispy Fries box just need to be flipped so Popo can say hi!

Fans of Twirlie can have an enjoyable time twisting and twirling a Chocolate Sundae Twirl robot cup. They can split the ice cream portion into half to reveal Twirlie, and rotate the arms to extend the toy figure. Lastly, jolly kids can let their imagination flow as they reveal the arms of the Yumburger figure, and flip the upper part to reveal Yum.

All Jolly Kiddie Meal toys are designed with eye-catching colors that will surely give little ones more joyful playtimes at home. Plus, they make cool memorabilia of their favorite Jollibee meals and mascots.

The toys come with their own Jolly Joy Box and are available with every purchase of a Yumburger (P82), Yumburger Meal with Drink (P102), Jolly Spaghetti (P97), Jolly Spaghetti Meal with Drink (P107), 1-pc. Burger Steak (P97), 1-pc. Burger Steak Meal with Drink (P114), 1-pc. Chickenjoy with Rice (P129), or a 1-pc. Chickenjoy Meal with Drink (P144). Kids can also get their hands on the complete set by purchasing a 6-pc. Chickenjoy Bucket for only P624.

Enjoy everyday robot action with Jollibee’s newest JolliBots! Collect all five toys by visiting the Jollibee branch nearest you, or by having them delivered to your home through the Jollibee App, JollibeeDelivery.com, #87000 hotline, GrabFood, or foodpanda.

Self-love your way to joyful wellbeing

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This Valentine’s Month should be different from your past Valentine’s celebrations. More than romantic love, the value of self-love should be your priority so you can develop joyful wellbeing even beyond February. Having gone through the challenges of this pandemic, you know you deserve it. So celebrate you by embracing self-love.

It doesn’t have to involve one grand gesture or indulgence, but instead try a variety of actions that will ultimately turn into habit – acts that will support your physical, social, financial, mental and emotional wellbeing. At the ‘Be the Stronger Better You in 2022 with FWD’ event, acclaimed physician Dr. Ging Zamora aptly said, “Total wellbeing is a work in progress, and deciding to be in a state of joy is an exercise we must strive to do as often as we possibly can.”

Financial self-love

FWD Life Insurance suggests making a long-term financial investment that covers your future needs as a form of self-love. Invest in an insurance plan that allows you to grow your money and at the same time protect yourself and your loved ones from any possible setbacks in the future. One that will give yourself the capacity to prepare for possible medical emergencies. FWD has Set for Health, KanMend and Health Bundle that may just be the right fit for you.

“We want to encourage more people to practice self-love by investing on their health and wellbeing. What we have to offer goes beyond illness coverage so our customers can celebrate living in their best health,” says Li Hao Zhuang, president and CEO of FWD. “When you are confident that you have yourself covered, you will find it easier to accomplish more and do all the things that you love.”

To help celebrate you and start your financial self-love, FWD is giving you a chance to win prizes. For those who are already going through your own self-love journey to build your overall health and wellbeing, share how you practice them on FWD’s social media accounts to possibly win prizes like Garmin smartwatch and wellness weekend for two at The Farm at San Benito. And since the Year of The Tiger starts on Valentine month, FWD will also give you a chance to win more gifts by simply booking a free financial planning session until February 15. With campaigns like these, FWD is on track to changing the way people feel about insurance.

Physical self-love

It has been proven that regular exercise and proper nutrition are the best ways to achieve optimum physical health. Those “happy hormones” released after a good workout can definitely make you feel good. The best part of having an exercise routine is that it allows you to eat your favorite comfort food without guilt. Indulge now, burn calories later, so they say.

If you’re not really into hardcore exercise and strict diets, you can give yourself some physical self-love through a soothing massage every now and then, morning walks with your dog, or simply a relaxing shower. When you feel great physically, your mental and emotional state follows.

Mental and emotional self-love

We all have different ways of coping with stress and anxiety, but you can take control of your mental and emotional health by practicing self-love. Some find meditation helpful, others listen to music or certain auditory stimulants, while others find comfort in reading books. Take a social media break, go hiking for some change of scenery and fresh air, or “disappear” for a while in a solitary place of your choice if you have to.

It’s all about clearing the mind, filtering out any form of external noise, and listening to yourself to determine what makes you feel good and happy. Once you learn how to recognize your own feelings and reach your best mental and emotional health, you’ll find yourself wanting to go out again and have a blast with your friends and family.

Social self-love

Self-love can lead to selfless love. When you focus on taking care of yourself, you go through a state of overall good health and wellbeing that you grow your capability to love others and actually want to share a bit of yourself.

You find joy in the company of others, so you make time for your family and friends even if it’s only through a virtual activity. You volunteer to social causes because you have developed the passion to serve. You love discovering new things, so you join a group of like-minded people to satisfy your interests. It's okay to do something for or with others just to make yourself feel good. If it means more people will benefit from the things you do out of self-love, then the world will be a better place.

Whatever you do this Tiger Year beginning on Valentine Month, remember to celebrate you first. After all, the best way to feel the joy of wellbeing is through self-love. Learn more about taking care of your health and wellbeing, and FWD’s health protection plans at Health and Wellbeing | FWD Philippines

About FWD Life Insurance

FWD Life Insurance Corporation (FWD Insurance) launched its commercial operations in September 2014. In just six years of business, FWD Insurance now ranks 3rd and 4th in terms of Paid-Up Capital1 and New Business Annual Premium Equivalent2, respectively.

FWD Group spans 10 markets in Asia including Hong Kong SAR & Macau SAR, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Japan, Malaysia and Cambodia, offering life and medical insurance, general insurance, employee benefits, Shariah and family takaful products across a number of its markets. In the Philippines, FWD has 18 business hubs located in key cities nationwide, with its headquarters in Bonifacio Global City in Taguig.

Established in Asia in 2013 with a trailblazer mentality, FWD is the primary insurance business of investment group, Pacific Century Group. FWD is focused on creating fresh customer experiences and making the insurance journey simpler, faster and smoother, with innovative propositions and easy-to-understand products, supported by digital technology. Through this customer-led approach, FWD aims to become a leading pan-Asian insurer that changes the way people feel about insurance.

For more information, please visit fwd.com.ph.

1 www.insurance.gov.ph > Statistics > Life > 2020 > Based on Paid-Up Capital

2 www.insurance.gov.ph > Statistics > Life > 2020 > Based on New Business Annual Premium Equivalent

Astra Guild Ventures: Investing in the future of play to earn gaming

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Astra Guild Ventures, or AGV, is one of the biggest play to earn gaming guild around, and they have begun expanding their presence in the crypto space, which, of course, you can still join in and be part of the growth that AGV plans to achieve!

AGV launched their AGV Token last December 23, 2021 in order to raise more funds for their expansion into other Play to Earn (P2E) games. Owning one of these tokens gives the holder the right to participate and vote in the direction of AGV’s growth, as it is a DAO or Decentralized Autonomous Organization Token, where each token will be equivalent to one vote. Other than that, the AGV token is a utility token - being built around the future of what AGV is building. The future goal of AGV is to be an ecosystem for various P2E games.

AGV does boast that prior to launch, they were able to undergo an audit by Certik, one of the leaders in blockchain security. They are the first gaming guild to do an audit prior to launch, as they were able to tweaks suggested by Certik.

AGV is proud that the tokens are made accessible on the Centralized Exchange BitMart and MEXC, and of course, on the Decentralized Exchange Uniswap.

WHY ASTRA GUILD VENTURES?

Astra Guild Ventures is a gaming guild wherein players and investors work together to maximize their overall yield. This organization currently has around 2035 Axie Infinity scholars, and a growing community in their Facebook, Discord, and Telegram.

AGV was conceptualized only last July 2021, and raised capital for Axie Infinity team acquisitions for the purpose of offering scholarships. By September, they focused on their growth by hiring an in-house team, even marketing themselves towards success.

Focused on transparency, AGV innovated for their members and investors by creating a dashboard of earnings and assets, all which can easily be found on their website. One can see how each of the scholars perform, what is being earned, and what assets are being lent out to them.

This, of course, brings AGV’s differentiator out as opposed to other gaming guilds. AGV executes faster than what their roadmap is, and gives more than what they promised. They are ever-evolving and growing, as they want to maximize the returns that their investors trusted them with by always being one step ahead.

And that brings one of their immediate goals nearer, where AGV aims to build an entire ecosystem of platforms centered around P2E gaming. This definitely makes AGV more than a gaming guild, once executed properly.

EARLY FAST GROWTH AND CURRENT SUCCESS

In three months, AGV and their team proved very successful in executing their plans, and are continuing to do so. On the foundation of AGV, they have gained a following, successfully raised funds in their seed rounds, fulfilled their contracts, connected to their investors, promoted the AGV token, achieved to be audited by Certik, and even acquired a stake in Blue Monster Games Inc.

The latter one mentioned is also a key in their future developments, as AGV wants to create their very own P2E game. Having a stake in Blue Monster Games Inc. enables AGV to do just that.

The current success of AGV has their team to thank. More importantly, they have the community which they created to thank, consisting of their volunteer scholars and managers.

AGV takes care of these as a manager handles 100 scholars, where each are observed, monitored, trained. As support, the managers also address any needs for their teams, revising and updating them as required. These are done to also ensure that the scholars reach their quota. As AGV puts up the capital for the teams to be used in play, the scholars use their time to play, and proper profit sharing is done so.

THE FUTURE OF ASTRA GUILD VENTURES

Looking beyond the horizon, AGV has a very healthy war chest to be deployed for investing in their own growth. They plan to continue investing in companies that develop P2E games whilst increasing the portfolio of the P2E games on hand.

Other than that, AGV wants to be a launchpad for new P2E games, creating an ecosystem of P2E games for others to access. Furthermore, AGV plans to have its own P2E games, further increasing their planned portfolio of such.

Astra Guild Ventures has set its sights into becoming one of the biggest DAOs, and with that, they see themselves as a name that everyone would know, driving innovation in the Play to Earn space. Based on their current results? AGV could definitely deliver.