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April 2, 2022

City of San Juan recognizes Ortigas Land as outstanding partner in pandemic response

The City of San Juan recently named Ortigas Land as one of the local government’s outstanding partners in its pandemic efforts. The recognition was awarded during the 115th Araw ng San Juan celebration, which had the theme, “Pagpaparangal at Pagkilala Para sa mga Natatanging Institusyon at Mamamayan ng San Juan”.
(L-R Atty. Bel Zamora, District Office Head of Cong. Ronny Zamora; Mr. James Candelaria AVP, Greenhills Mall Operations; San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora; San Juan Vice Mayor Warren Villa)

During the event, Mayor Zamora also underscored how the combined efforts of partners from the private and public sectors, donors and taxpayers, made San Juan a model city in its pandemic response. The city’s achievements include being the first to vaccinate medical frontliners and the first to reach herd immunity. San Juan was also commended by the Department of Health for fully vaccinating 100% of the target population.

Ortigas Malls is among the first mall chains to have 100% of its staff and employees fully inoculated and boosted. All of its branches also carry the local government unit’s Safety Seal Certification, which is issued only to establishments that strictly adhere to the Inter-Agency Task Force health guidelines and policies. The said certificate is renewed every six months, subject to continued compliance.

Ortigas Malls also supported San Juan City’s vaccination programs, turning the Theatre Mall at Greenhills Mall into an accessible, convenient vaccination center at the height of the pandemic. Through this partnership, the site was able to cater to more San Juan residents and non-residents, and increase vaccinations up to 1,500 a day.

“We’re proud to have been a constant partner of San Juan City in its efforts amid the challenging health crisis,” said Arch. Renee Bacani, Vice President of Ortigas Malls. “We remain committed to supporting and implementing initiatives for the good of our community, so we can all bounce back quickly and thrive in the new normal together.”

Committed to making playing online games a seamless experience, UniPin Adds ShopeePay as Payment Option


As a part of its mission to provide an easy experience when playing online games, UniPin continues to innovate and collaborate with various payment channels, especially e-wallet partners. UniPin, a leading digital entertainment enabler in Southeast Asia has recently announced ShopeePay, Shopee’s integrated mobile wallet, as their latest payment option.

As the online game industry continues to thrive, UniPin and ShopeePay is committed to serve the growing market of gamers by providing them with an easier way to pay for their online game vouchers. The Philippines is among the countries in Southeast Asia seeing sustained growth in mobile payment transactions. In 2020, the number of mobile wallet users in the country reached 24.6 million, with forecast figures reaching as much as 75.5 million in 2025 according to Statista, specializing in market and consumer data.

As the payment option to online games vouchers becomes available, it can be selected in each transaction under the Wallet payment option on UniPin web checkout. The amount of purchase will be deducted from the ShopeePay balance.

Since its launch in the Philippines in 2019, ShopeePay has continued to partner with merchants from various sectors to offer Filipinos the experience of hassle-free digital transactions. ShopeePay enables users to make a variety of transactions, including buying load, paying bills, and sending money. It also offers ‘Scan To Pay’, enabling users to pay via QR code at thousands of partners nationwide.

Cynthia David, Country Manager of UniPin Philippines explains that the new payment option is added to give online game enthusiasts greater convenience when making transactions.

“The addition of ShopeePay as our newest payment option is to give our customers more convenient and versatile options for payment while also proving our strong commitment to provide an easy online game experience for our loyal customers.”

Ruoshan Tao, Head of ShopeePay Online, Philippines, adds, “At ShopeePay, we are always looking for ways to support digital adoption. With the country’s growing online games community, ShopeePay is offering a convenient payment method for UniPin users to enjoy the online games experience to the fullest.”

More information about UniPin promotions, diamond purchase, and other activities can be officially accessed on www.unipin.com and www.facebook.com/UniPinPhilippines.

Make your family’s day special with the real deal— Jollibee’s Peach Mango Pie

Real peaches and mangoes in a deliciously crispy crust!



Family time is so precious, even on a regular day. But with busy schedules and personal pursuits, it’s not everyday that family members can really spend time together, even when they’re just at home.

You don’t need a special occasion to bring sweetness to your family’s day. Bring the family together with the real deal—Jollibee’s Peach Mango Pie! A winning snack which is unique from the usual fare, the Peach Mango Pie combines its signature filling made with real peaches and mangoes with its golden pie crust cooked to a perfect crisp.

“While family days are already special on its own, there are simple ways to create real experiences which make these days even better. Our Peach Mango Pie Family Pack is great for those who want to treat their families to the best snacks, as it comes with a sweet blend of real fruits in a crispy crust,” said Bea Bediones, Jollibee Marketing’s Brand Manager for Pies. “Its real peach mango goodness will surely make your family’s day and have them look forward to it time and time again!”

Jollibees Peach Mango Pie retails at P35 (Solo), P100 (3 Pies-to-Go), and P199 (6-pc. Family Pack). Have em safely delivered to you via the Jollibee Delivery App, JollibeeDelivery.com, #87000, GrabFood, and foodpanda! Also available in Drive-Thru and Take Out.

For more info and updates on Jollibee products, like Jollibee on Facebook and follow @jollibee on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.

ShopeePay empowers Filipinos to embrace digital payments through cost-saving features such as ‘send money for free’ and ‘cheapest load up to 5GB for ₱10’

This 4.4 ShopeePay Sale, Filipinos can maximize Shopee’s mobile wallet and its wide array of features for their everyday digital transactions

Since its launch in 2019, ShopeePay, Shopee’s integrated mobile wallet, has been providing convenience, security, and rewards and it continues to introduce features that impact the lives of FIlipinos. With the lifting of restrictions and individuals and businesses adjusting to the new normal, the preference for digital payments is here to stay. Recognizing this need and shift in consumer behavior, ShopeePay provides useful features such as ‘send money for free’ and the cheapest load up to 5GB for ₱10 this 4.4 ShopeePay Sale.

ShopeePay offers greater convenience and cost-saving rewards at the 4.4 ShopeePay Sale


From March 27 until April 6, consumers can look forward to even more rewarding perks at the 4.4 ShopeePay Sale such as zero transaction fees when sending money and the cheapest load offers. ShopeePay is also giving instant savings with exclusive free shipping vouchers and cashback promotions.


  • Send money for free

To make the payments experience more rewarding, ShopeePay users can send money for free. This feature allows users to send money from their ShopeePay wallet to any bank, e-wallet, or Shopee user with zero transfer fees. 


As an additional treat, new users can get up to free ₱200 when they fully verify their ShopeePay account and make their first transfer (at least P50)  to any bank, e-wallet or Shopee user via ShopeePay from March 27 to April 4. Their transfer also qualifies them for the “Send, Scratch & Win” raffle promo where they can get a chance to win coins, vouchers, and earn an entry for the raffle draw of ₱100,000 weekly. For more info, visit https://shopee.ph/m/shopeepay-send-money-for-free


To send money for free from the ShopeePay Wallet to any bank, e-wallet, or Shopee user,  users’ ShopeePay account must be verified. 


Click here to watch the video on how to send money.


  • Cheapest load offer

ShopeePay users can avail of affordable load and data packages from major telcos. Get ShopeePay’s cheapest load offer to get up to 5GB data for only ₱10 at the 4.4. ShopeePay Sale. 


On top of this offer, all users can enjoy up to 50% off on load at the 4.4 ShopeePay Sale. New users can also avail of ₱75 load for only ₱1 when they purchase for the first time via ShopeePay from March 27 to April 4. 


Click here to watch the video on how to buy discounted load and data in just a few taps using the Shopee app. 


ShopeePay also partnered with various brands to offer an alternative payment in stores. Through ShopeePay’s Scan To Pay feature, users can do  contactless payment via QR code and receive 20% cashback for products and services purchased at partner merchants such as Potato Corner, Papa John’s, Gong cha, Puregold, and more.  In addition, users can also get big savings when they visit “ShopeePay Near Me” on the Shopee app and purchase ₱1 Deals. 


Starting March 27, users can also get up to 100% cashback on participating billers such as Meralco, Maynilad, Globe, Smart, PLDT, Cignal, RCBC, and Metrobank when they settle their bills with ShopeePay.


For more information on the 4.4 ShopeePay Sale and other attractive deals on Shopee, visit: https://shopee.ph/m/4-4 .


ShopeePay sets milestones in digital financial services

Shopee aims to give consumers a valuable and seamless digital experience. It continues to innovate and explore new opportunities to help more consumers and merchants benefit within the ecosystem through ShopeePay. 


According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), digital payments made up 20.1% of all transactions in 2020—one in five payments or a total of 910 million transactions were done online1. This gives a better understanding of Filipinos' growing acceptance of digital payments, accelerated by the pandemic. 


Martin Yu, Director at Shopee Philippines, said, “Consumer lifestyles have become more digital-first; with a preference to meet their needs online not just for shopping but also for other financial transactions such as sending money, buying load, paying bills, and more. Consumers have a wide range of payment needs and ShopeePay's features aim to cater to a variety of different habits and preferences. With ShopeePay, we aim to continue helping more Filipinos access the benefits of digital payments and fulfill our mission to better the lives of individuals and businesses with financial services through technology.”


Since its launch, ShopeePay's has continued to support more consumers and merchants in their digital payment needs.

  • 95% increase in ShopeePay adoption in Visayas and Mindanao

  • 93% increase in overall transactions

  • 165% increase in load orders

  • 104% increase in ‘send money’ transactions

  • 550% increase in bills payment

  • More than 1 million foot traffic created for merchants with ShopeePay Near Me



“We are heartened by the confidence and trust consumers and merchants have placed in ShopeePay. We will continue to improve and innovate so we can meet their evolving needs,” adds Yu.

Noname Security Partners AZ Asia-Pacific to Accelerate Growth in Singapore and The Philippines

Bolsters presence in Asia Pacific with new sales and channel appointments

Noname Security, the leading API security company, recently announced that it has appointed AZ Asia-Pacific as its distribution partner in Singapore and The Philippines as it continues to expand within Asia Pacific. To drive customer acquisition and market share expansion, Noname Security has appointed Lim Pun Kok as Vice President Sales, Asia Pacific, and Eric Chong as Channel Sales Director, Asia Pacific.

Noname Security delivers the most powerful, complete, and easy-to-use API security platform. Noname finds and inventories all APIs; detects attacks, suspicious behavior, and misconfigurations using AI-based behavioral analysis; prevents attacks and integrates with existing remediation and security infrastructure; and actively validates APIs before deployment.

Unlike other solutions that only monitor API traffic, the Noname API Security Platform analyzes API traffic and application and infrastructure configurations to provide better API security posture management, API runtime security, and active API SDLC testing.

As predicted by Gartner, APIs have been the top attack vector for web applications in 2022, thus driving demand for API security. Fresh from securing USD 135 million in Series C funding at USD 1 billion valuation, only Noname Security, through its API Security Platform, can find all shadow APIs and API misconfigurations before impacting the enterprise.

Lim Pun Kok, Vice President Sales Asia Pacific at Noname Security

Lim Pun Kok, Vice President Sales Asia Pacific at Noname Security, said, “We are committed to establishing a strong local presence so we can better serve our customers in Asia Pacific, and with AZ Asia-Pacific’s technical expertise and proven track record across various industries, we are confident that this partnership will cement our position as the leading API security platform in the region.”

Headquartered in Singapore, AZ Asia-Pacific is a distribution services hub that focuses on delivering quality solutions and services in technology, namely within the cloud, network and security space. AZ Asia-Pacific has a stellar range of products and services aimed at responding effectively to the industry’s needs, which will now include Noname Security’s proprietary products and services.

Seth Ho, Regional Director, Business Development, Asia Pacific at AZ Asia-Pacific

Seth Ho, Regional Director, Business Development, Asia Pacific at AZ Asia-Pacific, said, “Partnering with Noname Security will put us in a strong position to address our customers’ evolving API security requirements and more importantly, their digital transformation goals to future-proof their businesses. We are excited that this partnership enables us to take advantage of the unique value of the Noname API Security Platform and technology, whilst unlocking new revenue opportunities.”

Helpful Links

       Noname Security Website

       Noname Security Blog

       Noname Security Ebooks and Resources

       Noname Security Product Briefs

       Noname Security Solution Briefs

       Noname Security Whitepapers

       Get more insights on the Noname Security API Platform

       Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook

Noname Security is the only company taking a complete, proactive approach to API Security. Noname works with 20% of the Fortune 500 and covers the entire API security scope across three pillars — Posture Management, Runtime Security, and Secure API SDLC. Noname Security is privately held, remote first with headquarters in Palo Alto, California, and an office in Tel Aviv and London.

About AZ Asia-Pacific

AZ Asia-Pacific is a full-fledged distributor that works with the best breed of industry system integrators and service providers across the APJ region to re-invent solutions and services delivery in order to meet and exceed enterprises’ technology challenges and requirements — Cloud, Network and Security. AZ Asia-Pacific is privately held, headquartered in Singapore, with offices and operations in Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, China & South Asia.

Describing the Indescribable with Coca-Cola® Zero Sugar

Coca-Cola Zero Sugar launches new #ZeroWords campaign, showcasing creative interpretations of its ‘too good for words’ taste.

Manila, Philippines, April 2022Coca-Cola Zero Sugar launches its latest global campaign called #ZeroWords designed to challenge and inspire centennials, or the Generation Z fans — for whom social media is their go-to source of entertainment — to interpret the effervescent or fizzy taste of Coca-Cola Zero® without using any words, across their own social platforms using a unique collection of dynamic digital stickers and gifs.

Cesar Gangoso, Coca-Cola Marketing Director for Philippines, Vietnam and Cambodia, said: “We’re excited to have the Gen Zs try out the great taste of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar and have them interpret how its taste is too good for words. We are looking forward to the creative visual interpretations that these young people will come up with in this latest #ZeroWords campaign.”

Globally, Coca-Cola has gathered inspirational non-verbal creators to interpret its indescribable taste, without using words, in a series of visually dynamic films, to be launched on their social platforms.

In the Philippines, Coca-Cola is working with different and talented local content creators who can show people how they too can express themselves with zero words whenever they enjoy the great tasting drink of Coca-Cola Zero. The brand hopes to invite more people to also try and taste the delicious zero-sugar drink.

Seeing how expressive and creative centennials are, Coca-Cola is releasing a collection of visually dynamic animated digital stickers to help bring to life the indescribable yet deliciously effervescent taste of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar – from exploding hearts to disco dancers to lightning bolts. Free Coca-Cola Zero Sugar products will also be given away through free product sampling opportunities and fun social challenges that are rewarded in free product trial moments.

“Ultimately, what we want is for people to enjoy the moment that they are drinking an ice-cold delicious Coca-Cola Zero Sugar drink—focusing on how the taste makes them feel. And sometimes, words are not enough,” Gangoso concluded.

Coca-Cola Zero Sugar is available in convenience stores, supermarkets, and e-commerce channels. To learn more about Coca-Cola #ZeroWords, check out the hashtag or visit the official pages of Coca-Cola on Facebook and Instagram.

April 1, 2022

TV5’s Niña Niño Celebrates Successful Year of Miracles and Inspiration


The highly-rated and most viewed drama series of TV5 has proven time and again how hope and love can indeed do wonders in people’s lives.

One year since it premiered in April 2021, Niña Niño now celebrates its first anniversary by providing viewers with more heartwarming episodes, introducing new colorful guest characters, and unveiling surprises that will transform the lives of the characters whom everyone fell in love with since the show premiered.

Niña Niño achieved its first milestone in its August 17 episode, where the show registered a 5.0% audience share, a notable achievement considering the steep primetime competition in this timeslot. The show also featured the special participation of the country’s timeless heartthrob, Piolo Pascual, who portrayed the role of Sitio Sta. Ynez’s indefatigable Mayor Charles – to the delight of many swooning viewers.

While the show endeared itself to local audiences, Niña Niño also garnered international recognition, bagging top awards for Best Drama Series and Best Actress of the Year (for lead star Maja Salvador) in the prestigious Asian Academy Creative Awards 2021 last October. Locally, Maja also won the Favorite Bida and Actress of the Year awards for Niña Niño in the 2021 LionhearTV RAWR Awards.

In November, TV5 announced the show’s series extension and celebrated this along with their year-end achievements via the “Himala ng Pasko” campaign. To make Christmas even more meaningful, Niña Niño was also officially added to the Netflix roster of shows and started streaming on December 30. Since then, the series was consistently in the Top 10 most streamed programs on Netflix Philippines for several weeks.

“Niña Niño has achieved so much more than we expected, and we are honored and thankful for having such an inspiring show to boost everyone’s morale and entertain so many viewers all across the country. Of course, the credit goes to the hardworking creative team behind the show, all the artists and production staff for their collective effort to create such a remarkable series. We congratulate Niña Niño on its first anniversary and we look forward to what the show has in store for all of us in the coming weeks,” shared Robert P. Galang, Cignal and TV5 President and CEO.

Using the official anniversary hashtag, #1sangTaonNgHimala, celebrate with Maja Salvador, Noel Comia Jr., and the rest of the Niña Niño cast as they revisit their most memorable moments on the show. 

The upcoming episodes are sure to get more compelling with more twists and challenges as both Niña and Niño beat all odds for the love of their family and community in Sta. Ynez.

Be prepared to see more miracles come to life and catch Niña Niño every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 7:15PM on TV5

March 31, 2022

Celebrate Fierce Females and Everyday SHEroes at Market! Market!

Check out the awesome lineup of activities at the mall this March for International Women’s Month!


Manila, Philippines - March 31, 2022 - March has been all about her at Market! Market!, as the community celebrates International Women’s Month. An exciting mix of activities centered on self-care, wellness, and fun, have been lined up, each aimed at empowering and honoring the wonderful women in our lives.

Wellness for SHEroes: Empowered Body, Empowered Mind

Free legal, and medical advice were offered to women who dropped by the Serendra Wing on March 26, 2022, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.



Sweat It Out

Market! Market! partnered with Jumpfest Ph to offer free jump rope sessions to anyone looking for a fun new way to stay in shape. This took place at the Playzone on March 13, 20, and 27 at 8:00 AM.

GIRLpreneur

Show your support and shop at the various booths run by female entrepreneurs at the G/F of Market! Market! from March 21 to April 4, 2022. GIRLpreneur is a project of Alagang Ayala in partnership with CDPEAP.

GRL PWR Raffle Promo

Get the chance to win a mini beauty fridge when you join the GRL PWR Raffle Promo, which runs from March 11 to 31, 2022.

Showcase Your Talents!


Post a video on TikTok of you singing, dancing, acting, or doing anything under the sun that shows off your talents, for the chance to win special prizes! Be sure to follow

@ilovemarketmarket, tag the account, and include the hashtag #StageActAtMarketMarket when you post!

For more information on mall activities, schedules, and promotions at #iLoveMarketMarket, like and follow Facebook.com/MarketMarket, @ilovemarketmarket on Instagram and TikTok, and @MarketMarketBGC on Twitter. You may also visit www.ayalamalls.com.

Ortigas Malls Passion Hub - Nutty ScientisT

 When was the last time you tried something for the first time?

At Ortigas Malls, we would like to help you discover new passions and create new experiences with the Ortigas Malls Passion Hub! Enjoy fun and exciting bi-monthly workshops and events at Greenhills, Tiendesitas, and Estancia. Learn, Ignite, Focus, and Experience new passions—all for FREE when you register for the Ortigas Community Card.

This month, you can look forward to science shows for kids aged 4 to 12 with the Nutty Scientist at Estancia on April 2, Tiendesitas on April 23, and Greenhills on April 24.

Beginners of all ages can also try Pottery Making at Tiendesitas on April 8, Vlogging at Greenhills on April 22, 1,000 Peso Challenge at Greenhills on April 23, and Golf at Estancia on April 24.

Visit the Greenhills Mall, Tiendesitas, and Estancia at Capitol Commons social media pages for more workshop schedules and details monthly!

Download the Ortigas Malls mobile app for exclusive perks and privileges when you join the Ortigas Community Card. Available on Android and iOS.

Ortigas Malls ensures the safety of all its customers and employees, having been given Safety Seals by their respective LGUs which is a declaration that they have complied with each city’s precautionary measures set by the DOH and IATF to help prevent the spread of the virus.

#OMPassionHub #OrtigasCommunityCard #EnjoyEveryday

 

Globe, Caritas Philippines join hands to create a #GlobeOfGood


Two years into the pandemic, involuntary hunger rates are still found to be at 10%, according to the Social Weather Stations and the Philippine Statistics Office– higher by 1.2% than pre-pandemic levels. This is aggravated by the 6.4% unemployment rate.

But while Filipinos still struggle to adjust to a new way of life, families continue to confront even more hardships, among them those affected when Typhoon Odette hit several parts of the country in December.

Four-year old Fatima and her family from Talibon, Bohol were among those severely affected by the powerful typhoon. They lost their home and most of their belongings due to the storm, leaving them lost in uncertainties in their daily life. In other areas, Nanay Evangeline from Dalaguete, Cebu, and Myrabel from Taytay, Palawan, were also greatly affected - losing their homes and livelihood due to Odette.

With the hopes of assisting families like Fatima’s, Nanay Evangeline’s, and Myrabel’s, Globe and Caritas Philippines joined hands to give them much needed support under the Globe of Good, a program that aims to provide multi-sectoral stakeholders a platform to encourage collective action towards achieving sustainable and inclusive development for communities by leveraging the power of technology.

Under its Alay Kapwa Legacy Program, Caritas Philippines provides beneficiary communities with a holistic intervention program that goes beyond family feeding. It supports beneficiary families towards self-sufficiency through training for the creation of backyard and community vegetable gardens for food security.

The foundation also empowers its partner families through the formation of self-help groups and a community association that channels small regular savings contributions to create a micro-lending business among members. They provide skills training in micro-entrepreneurship using digital tools, and a one-time business capital of P10,000.

Caritas Philippines values family as the basic unit of society and provides values formation support through responsible parenting and family sessions.

“We, at Caritas Philippines, focus on sustainable development programs and participative partnerships which cover assistance in addressing basic needs and values formation to provide holistic intervention to partner families. We aim to strengthen the families to allow them to contribute to their communities. We hope that our partnership under the Globe of Good program will enable us to reach more communities,” said Most Rev. Jose Colin Bagaforo, DD, National Director of Caritas Philippines.

The organization is one of the many partners of Globe in its advocacy of creating impact and uplifting the lives of Filipinos, especially those in most need. The partnership aims to reach over 2,400 individuals from farmers, fisherfolk, and community sectoral groups, and provide them with both food and sustainable livelihood and employment opportunities.

“As a digital solutions company, we strive to make our products and services to be forces for good for our customers. We believe in utilizing technology to imbibe good habits. Globe of Good aims to extend the ability to support organizations like Caritas Philippines so that we, as a community, can create a bigger positive societal impact,” said Yoly Crisanto, SVP Group Corporate Communications and Chief Sustainability Officer at Globe.

Globe customers can also be part of the advocacy by using their Globe Rewards points expiring on March 31, 2022 to contribute to eradicating hunger and poverty among Filipino communities that are most in need.

For as low as 1 peso, they can help feed the hungry and jumpstart livelihood activities for program beneficiaries. Just download the GlobeOne app, go to the “Rewards” section, click the “DONATE” icon, choose “Globe of Good'' and corresponding denomination, and then press “REDEEM.” A confirmation message will be sent by 4438 upon successful donation.

Globe supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly UN SDG No. 9, highlighting the roles of infrastructure and innovation as crucial drivers of economic growth and development. It is committed to upholding the UN Global Compact principles and contributing to 10 UN SDGs.

To know more about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.

March 30, 2022

The strength of the feminine touch: EastWest’s female executives bring experience, skill, and understanding to banking

Like many professions over history, banking has traditionally been seen as a field dominated by men. It’s no different in the Philippines, where banking in the country took root in the middle of the 19th century. When one mentions bankers, the mental image that comes to mind can still be that of prim and wizened men.
Ivy B. Uy, Jacqueline S. Fernandez, Isabelle Gotianun Yap
Three of EastWest’s female senior executives share their perspective of succeeding in a traditionally male industry

Despite this perception, the past few decades have done much to challenge and change this idea. Women have increasingly risen through the ranks in many banks in the Philippines, and by the turn of the millennium a handful of the country’s top banks have already embraced the strength and intellect they have to offer in high-ranking positions.

Gotianun-led EastWest is one such bank that has openly rostered a remarkable amount of women in its entire ranks, all the way up to senior management and executive levels. As of Dec. 2021, the bank currently has 4,384 female employees over 2,361 male employees, with 131 female executives over 114 male executives. Currently the bank also has five female members on its Board of Directors.

This strong female-to-male ratio in EastWest’s employee base is due to the bank sufficiently establishing itself as a meritocracy which does not see any gender bias—something that three of its female senior executives know all too well.

“EastWest is a meritocratic environment who cares deeply for its people,” said Board Director Isabelle Gotianun Yap. “We stand by our RED framework—Role Clarity, Environment, and Development for all, and our programs are focused on these elements. We believe our steadfast commitment to placing our people at the center makes a great place for anyone, especially women to work in.”

Simply put, if you’re a banker who excels and is deserving, you get the spot. “Merit and credit are given to the most deserving, this is very much aligned to the culture of the bank. EastWest gives equal opportunity to everyone to excel,” says EastWest SVP and Deputy Head of Retail Banking Group Ivy B. Uy.

“The bank doesn’t consider gender or anything for that matter in making decisions when it comes to people. Fortunately, EastWest has attracted equally good women,” shared SEVP and Chief Lending Officer Jacqueline S. Fernandez.

“I have been in banking for the past 29 years, being exposed to both male and female bosses that served as my role models. I do not believe in stereotypes—I really believe in equality between men and women as long as you also do not undermine yourself and your capabilities,” Uy added.

It also helps that Philippine society as a whole is generally more open to having women in leadership positions, which other countries could still have a problem with. This receptiveness to the idea translates into better opportunities for women’s upward mobility, not just in EastWest but in many organizations and institutions.

“The Philippines is relatively supportive of women in leadership positions so there is a lot of room for upward mobility,” said Yap. “At EastWest, there are definitely opportunities for upward mobility for women—you can see this from our board where almost 50% of our directors are women, and also in our Executive team. We definitely walk the talk here.”

“Over the past few decades, we have seen more and more women occupying senior positions in the banking industry,” said Fernandez. “Since the environment is now neutral to gender, it is just a matter of having women who have what it takes and are ambitious to be at the top. Given this, maybe you can say it’s much easier now compared to five decades ago.

“Though it is true that banking at the top is still male-dominated with only few female bank presidents, many women have proven their mettle over the decades that the banking industry has already opened up to women having senior posts,” added Fernandez.

The feminine strength

Although EastWest prides itself as a bank that does not discriminate, it’s worth noting that women also have their own unique advantages that they bring to their management roles.

“I believe women can add perspectives on empathy and perhaps concerns employees may have not just in the workplace but outside it as well,” said Yap. “Women are also equally resilient and determined, once we have a goal, we are also laser-focused on achieving this.”

Uy is very much familiar with the strengths that a female perspective can add to a bank’s performance, as someone who oversees the bank’s wide network of stores and helped lead remarkable and transformative operations in the organization.

“In my opinion, women bring three unique things to their roles: a transformational leadership style, open cooperation and collaboration, and a democratic communication style,” shared Uy.

“Women are more maalaga. Women leaders function as a role model for their subordinates. They inspire their team and spend a lot of time coaching their team. They care a lot about their personal development.

“Women leaders emphasize teamwork and authentic communication as a key to success. For most women leaders, leadership is not meant only for accomplishing organizational goals but for transforming their followers into better people.

“Lastly, women leaders tend to be participatory and possess a democratic style of leadership. Women oftentimes indirectly communicate their expectations of a given task and allow more space in accomplishing a goal. It sometimes helps the team members use their skills and expertise to complete the task, however, at other times it can be a drawback if the assigned task requires a leader to have direct communication with the members.”

While it is just as true that the strengths and skills that allow one to rise to the top are the same regardless of gender, sometimes there are just some intangibles that some have—and a diverse set of perspectives is crucial to an organization’s exceptional performance.

Providing the proper support

It’s not only in the senior management and executive levels where allyship and consideration for women count—EastWest is also aware that it constantly needs to improve and make sure that its female employee base is always supported, especially when it comes to women’s needs.

“The recent pandemic has brought new challenges to women in terms of work-life balance,” shared Yap. “As our bank was one of the most work-from-home banks in the country, we heard how our employees had to juggle working, teaching, and cooking with everyone under one roof. While we are normalizing and moving back to pre-pandemic work arrangements, we still need to be cognizant that everyone, including women, are also going through that transition in their own lives.”

Fernandez agrees with the need to show more institutional support to women employees. “As an employer, I think we can have some opportunities to address some of their concerns, such as providing lactating rooms to nursing mothers, and other similar initiatives,” she said.

This support for women not only extends to EastWest’s employees, but also to the bank’s female customers, which make up a huge part of its clientele. EastWest understands the financial power that female customers possess, and is currently actively exploring more ways to serve them better and maximize their potential.

“In the Philippines, women play an important role as well in managing the finances of the family, so of course I believe we should have more relevant products for women,” said Yap. “While there are female-targeted products, we should go a layer further and cater to life stages of women and understanding their financial needs from there.”

“Our data are telling us that our borrowers are more women,” said Fernandez. “Thus, we do marketing programs based on various personas which include women.”

“There is always room to understand the needs of any customer more so that we can come up with products or services that can serve them better,” said Uy.

With female EastWestbankers in prominent positions, greatly equipped with the insight and understanding of women on both sides of the counter, both female employees and customers can be assured of top-notch care and service at the bank. EastWest’s direction of holding women up as equal is a permanent and immovable pillar—and major factor—of its excellence.

LRMC continues to make change for LRT-1 women, caps off Women’s Month with Women’s Bazaar

In a highly regulated industry, which has been dominated by males through the years, one organization strives to shift the paradigm. LRT-1 private operator Light Rail Manila Corporation (LRMC) continues to champion women empowerment in the railway industry.

Anchored on this year’s theme of Women’s Month “We Make Change Work for Women,” LRMC recognizes the role of women as active contributors to and claimholders of development. LRMC has put on the helm a number of women who have actively contributed to the company’s growth through their skills, strengths, and passion.

Comprising 50% of its Senior Management Team, LRMC’s roster of female executives is a confident nod to the future of organizational leadership. Also taking the spotlight are the strong and reliable LRT-1 station supervisors with 56% female population across the LRT-1 system, and the 11 hardworking female train operators who are proving that a strong, resilient, and reliable woman can drive growth in the industry.

A final area of focus in this year’s Women’s Month celebration is a “Women’s Bazaar” in partnership with Gabriela happening on March 30 and 31, 2022 at the LRT-1 Central Station from 9am to 4pm. The bazaar will showcase creations and products of nine (9) female startup owners who experienced different obstacles in life – from discrimination and violence to lack of support and resources.

“We firmly believe that being inclusive can spark creativity and innovation, as well as drive more sustainable outcomes. This is the reason why we are supporting women from different sectors to provide a promising pathway to livelihood, decent work, and economic empowerment. We invite our LRT-1 passengers to visit the LRT-1 Central Station and support this initiative for a good cause,” said LRMC Corporate Communications and Customer Relations Head Jacqueline S. Gorospe.

From fashion accessories, hygiene kits, handmade products, and basic parts of bedding to cooked food and herbal medicines, one is sure to find unique and one-of-a-kind useful items at the LRT-1 Women’s Bazaar. Stretch your peso even further with items that give back to a good cause with every purchase.

For more updates and info on the LRT-1, follow LRMC on Facebook at facebook.com/officialLRT1, Twitter at @officialLRT1, or download the ikotMNL mobile app for free on Google Play and App Store.

PLDT Home Biz awards mompreneurs with the most inspiring success stories in the inaugural Gawad Madiskarte

No word better can describe moms pouring out their resourcefulness, creativity, and heart to provide their families the best life possible than madiskarte. The pandemic only saw more of our madiskarte moms, many of whom have ventured into online businesses to augment their household income.

Recognizing these moms and their invaluable entrepreneurial spirit, PLDT Home Biz held the inaugural Gawad Madiskarte online on March 8, 2022 — just in time for International Women’s Day. Hosted by PLDT Home Biz ambassadors Dominic Roque and Roxanne Montealegre, with performances from Jed Madela, Fana, and Gigi de Lana and the Gigi Vibes band, the event awarded six mompreneurs whose stories of hard work, tenacity, and success stood out among 327 entries from all over the Philippines.

From (L-R) Rommel Kristian Madrigal (Husband of Abigael Madrigal, Diskarteng Solid winner), Wvon Der Hendrich A. Adolfo (Husband of Kaylynn Adolfo, Diskarteng Malikhain winner), Rosanna Kabiling, Diskarteng May Pusowinner, Theresa Carbonel-Buenaflor, Diskarteng Digital winner and Rachelle Patalud, Diskarteng Malikhain winner

Each Gawad Madiskarte winner received a P100,000 cash prize, a brand-new laptop, and a one-year PLDT Home Biz Asenso Fiber Plan among other major prizes to help further her online business.

What turned out to be an unexpectedly emotional tribute to Filipino moms who have moved past adversities and written their own success stories of online entrepreneurship, Gawad Madiskarte 2022 is a landmark project of Madiskarte Moms PH (MMPH) — a community of mompreneurs for mompreneurs created in the thick of the pandemic.

"Providing Filipinos, especially mompreneurs, with the confidence to reach for their dreams and make a difference not only for their families, but also in the community, has always been our mission in Madiskarte Moms PH and PLDT Home Biz," said Patrick S. Tang, Vice President and Head of PLDT Home Customer Management. "We're honored to share the inspiring stories of our Madiskarte Moms and we strive to be their steadfast ally through every challenge and in every success."

With hundreds of entries received for this first awarding, Gawad Madiskarte followed a meticulous selection process and commissioned a group of reputable judges to help choose the winners. The judges boasted industry leaders and master entrepreneurs: Butch Jimenez of PLDT Inc., Undersecretary Blesila A. Lantayona of the Department of Trade and Industry, Annette Gozon-Valdes of GMA Films, Prep Palacios of Google Philippines, Issang Ceballos of Facebook Philippines, restaurateur and chef Happy Ongpauco-Tiu, and Potato Corner and Tokyo Tempura founders Jorge and Jenny Wieneke.

Meet the Gawad Madiskarte winners

Diskarteng Digital (Best Multi-channel Business) awardee Theresa Carbonel-Buenaflor was already a seasoned entrepreneur even before joining MMPH during the pandemic. She had been running Ellana Mineral Cosmetics — a beauty and personal care brand known for its clean, vegan, and cruelty formulas — and came to realize the need to pivot digitally given the threat of the pandemic. With the support of fellow mompreneurs and MMPH, Mommy Theresa was able to expand and sell her products across different platforms including physical stores and e-commerce stores. She has now amassed more than 300,000 followers on her online pages, earning her the aforementioned Gawad Madiskarte recognition.

“This award is so dear to my heart because I joined this group when I was feeling lost doing business during the pandemic. It has not been easy, and I’ve been looking for a community to lift my spirit up. Sharing my story in MMPH was very therapeutic. It renewed my hope and it made me realize that I can inspire other mompreneurs,” Mommy Theresa said, upon accepting the award.

Mommy Lou NeriaPutian of skincare brand SY Glow, winner of Diskarteng Angat (Fastest-Growing Business), shares a similar story. An entrepreneur advocating effective but affordable beauty products, Mommy Lou started her business from scratch and then scaled up her business to include distributors and resellers from the MMPH community. She now registers an average sales revenue of P1.6 million a month.

For her efforts toward helping the environment while providing employment in communities across Laguna, Mommy Rosanna Dela Cruz Kabiling of waste management company Something Nice Environmental Corp. won the Diskarteng May Puso award (Best Social Enterprise). With the Gawad Madiskarte prize and recognition, Mommy Rosanna is poised to transform her company into a “world-class” brand that promotes sustainability.

Winning the Diskarteng Eco-friendly (Most Green Business) award, Mommy Kaylynn Adolfo owns The Asian Mommy Facebook page where she sells a variety of reusable cloth diapers. Armed with a background in public health and using her page as a platform to share other parenting tips and tricks, she has made it her advocacy to redirect fellow parents to more eco-friendly household alternatives.

“MMPH as a community is such a big help because opportunities like these are where we can inspire and motivate other moms to reach for their dreams. To all mommies out there, this is the sign that you can do it,” Mommy Kaylynn said at the event.

Meanwhile, Diskarteng Solid (Strongest Start-Up Business Model) awardee Mommy Abigael Madrigal started out her online bed linen shop Mommy Matters by selling bedsheets her mother had sewn. With the help of MMPH, she was able to get her first customers and eventually expand her brand. Mommy Matters now boasts more than 100 bed linen designs and keeps a loyal customer base, earning Mommy Abigael the Gawad Madiskarte honors.

As the owner of CLARA, an online clothing store whose Filipiniana designs feature detachable butterfly sleeves, Mommy Rachelle Patalud has shown how creativity and flexibility makes a good fashion statement. For her modern and casual take on a formalwear classic, she has earned the Diskarteng Malikhain (Most Innovative Product) trophy — awarded to creative minds breathing life to fresh and unique products and services.

On top of the winners, PLDT Home Biz also honored Mommy Lou Neria Putian of skincare brand SY Glow with Diskarteng Home Biz (Mompreneur’s Choice Award). The brand awarded the special prize to the madiskarte mom, hailed for having the “most potential for success” in a voting poll among MMPH members on its Facebook community page.

Each Gawad Madiskarte awardee also took home a KalyeNegosyo Scholarship courtesy of Mr. and Mrs. KaAsenso - Jorge and Jenny Wieneke – and a trophy handcrafted by award-winning sculptor Glenn Cagandahan. Nominees, meanwhile, each won a P25,000 cash prize as consolation.

“Madiskarte Moms PH, beyond educating moms and equipping them with business tools and resources, has evolved into a support group of women, inspiring and encouraging each other as they tread through their digital adventures together. We’re nothing but proud of what MMPH has accomplished in just 17 months, and so we look forward to what more we can accomplish together in the future!” Tang shared.

“Believe me, Madiskarte Moms PH is just getting started. And Gawad Madiskarte 2022 is just the start of a bigger campaign by us here at PLDT Home Biz — all in celebration of the Filipino’s exceptional entrepreneurial spirit,” he added.

Launched in September 2020, MMPH has become a safe online space for mompreneurs seeking out resources, tools, and support to start or grow their online businesses. Now with over 104,000 members and a growing YouTube channel, the community has become a wellspring of inspiring stories of moms who embodied hard work and diskarte in making their dreams happen even beyond the pandemic.

Learn more about our Madiskarte Moms and their success stories by joining the growing community https://www.facebook.com/groups/MadiskarteMomsPH.