Schneider Electric champions energy efficiency as key to business resilience

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As climate change and rising energy costs continue to impact businesses, Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has reinforced its call for Philippine businesses to prioritize energy efficiency as the fastest and most cost-effective route to sustainability.

● Schneider Electric emphasizes that Philippine businesses can no longer treat energy efficiency as optional. Companies must act now to remain competitive and sustainable.

● While 98% of Philippine businesses have sustainability goals, only 52% are taking meaningful action.

● Schneider Electric’s three-step approach to strategize, digitize, and decarbonize offers a clear path to closing this gap.

Ireen Catane, Country President of Schneider Electric Philippines, at the Energy Efficiency Day 2025 conference hosted by the Philippine Energy Efficiency Alliance, Inc. (PE2) held last March 20 at the SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City.

Ireen Catane, Country President of Schneider Electric Philippines, recently stressed that energy efficiency is no longer a choice but an imperative for businesses aiming to remain competitive and resilient.

“In the Philippines, we have seen an increase in the Green Impact Gap by 5 points since last year’s survey, reaching 46%. While 98% of companies have sustainability goals, only 52% are taking comprehensive steps to meet them,” said Catane. “We need to better understand how we can work together to close this gap. Energy efficiency is the most immediate and impactful solution businesses can adopt today.”

Schneider Electric pioneered the use of the Green Impact Gap to measure the misalignment between companies' declared commitment towards their sustainability goals and the tangible actions to implement sustainable development.

Energy Efficiency: A Business Imperative

Schneider Electric reports that rising climate risks have led to unstable energy costs and supply chain disruptions, already impacting 41% of businesses in Asia. Moreover, artificial intelligence-driven computing demand is expected to increase data center power consumption by 4.2 times by 2028, further straining energy resources and amplifying the need for smarter energy management.

Schneider Electric’s insights align with data from the PE2. Alexander Ablaza, President of PE2, highlighted the financial and environmental benefits of energy efficiency, stating that businesses could save billions in operational costs while cutting carbon emissions. However, he noted that many companies are still in the process of prioritizing and mainstreaming sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives in their day-to-day operations.

At the same conference, Schneider Electric outlined a three-step approach for businesses to effectively close the Green Impact Gap: Strategize, Digitize, and Decarbonize.

● Strategize: Develop a clear roadmap to sustainability with measurable targets.

● Digitize: Leverage data and automation to monitor and optimize energy consumption.

● Decarbonize: Implement solutions that drive emissions reduction and long-term energy savings.

By adopting these steps, businesses can unlock financial and operational benefits. Schneider Electric’s research found that energy-efficient buildings not only reduce operational costs but also enhance property value and business reputation. Moreover, 42% of Philippine-based companies surveyed recognized new business opportunities arising from improved energy efficiency.

Leaders from the energy, sustainability, and government sectors gathered at the Energy Efficiency Day 2025 conference at SMX Convention Center, Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City, to drive action on accelerating energy efficiency in the Philippines

A Call to Action for Philippine Enterprises

Schneider Electric, alongside other representatives from both the public and private sector, reaffirmed its commitment to helping businesses navigate the energy transition through advanced solutions and strategic partnerships. “The path to sustainability is clear. Companies that act now will be the ones that thrive. The technology and expertise to drive energy efficiency already exist, and businesses must take decisive steps to turn commitments into real impact,” Catane emphasized.

With regulatory frameworks like the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act in place, the private sector faces increasing pressure to implement energy efficiency measures. Schneider Electric and industry leaders present during the conference highlighted that adopting these solutions is essential for long-term business sustainability and competitiveness in the Philippines.

Coca-Cola Philippines and Partners Help Empower 2,000 Women Entrepreneurs Through iSTAR Program

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The Negros Women for Tomorrow Foundation (NWTF), a long-time partner of Coca-Cola Philippines, hosted the first-ever Hybrid Mass Graduation Ceremony for the iSTAR Program in Bacolod, Negros Occidental on February 1, 2025. This milestone aligns with Coca-Cola Philippines’ commitment to economic empowerment, particularly for women in grassroots communities.

The graduation ceremony brought together 2,000 graduates who joined in person or virtually, and reinforced the program’s role in uplifting women entrepreneurs nationwide.

This marked a major achievement for the iSTAR Program in Western Visayas, particularly in Region VI, highlighting its role in equipping entrepreneurs with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to build and sustain their businesses.

iSTAR graduates at the graduation ceremony in the University of Negros Occidental Recoletos Gymnasium.

“For over 112 years, Coca-Cola Philippines has been refreshing the lives of Filipinos and making a positive difference in our communities, said Ivanna Dela Torre, Senior Director of Public Affairs, Communication, and Sustainability at Coca-Cola Philippines.

The event was attended by key TESDA (Technical Education & Skills Development Authority) officials, including Director General Sec. Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez, Deputy Director General for Special Concerns Felizardo R. Colombo, Executive Director of the Partnerships and Linkages Office Floramel Joy C. Songsong, Chief of the National Training Center for Women Mylene H. Somera, and TESDA regional and provincial representatives.

Strengthening partnerships for greater impact

iSTAR graduate and Sari-sari Store and Bakery owner Catherine Gallano, shared how the program equipped her with the essential skills and knowledge for her entrepreneurial success. Through the initiative’s digital learning platform, she also gained confidence in financial management and customer engagement, allowing her to expand her business.

“The iSTAR program has been incredibly beneficial as it empowers women like me to run a sustainable business, allowing us to earn a living and enhance our quality of life”, she shared.

iSTAR graduate Catherine Gallano proudly showcases her baked goods in her bakery, applying the skills and knowledge gained from the program to expand her business.

The success of the iSTAR Program is driven by the strong collaboration between Coca-Cola Philippines, TESDA, and the NWTF. TESDA has played a key role in expanding the program’s reach by providing training and certification, as well as making iSTAR’s modules free and accessible nationwide through the TESDA Online Program, ensuring more aspiring entrepreneurs can benefit from the initiative.

“You get addicted to learning; you get addicted to [the] growth of learning for yourself and sharing your learning through training others as well. Spread the message: TESDA is here to make sure that no Filipino potential goes to waste. We are here to ensure that you have the skills that you need for whatever you or your family aspires for. That we are here to help you from training to [trabaho],” said Sec. Benitez.

The NWTF has been instrumental in implementing iSTAR in grassroots communities. Its commitment to championing entrepreneurship has played a key role in ensuring that program participants—especially women—receive the necessary training and support to sustain their businesses.

"Loans are just part of it; we need loans to have capital, but the heart of Project Dungganon is to support, maximize, and protect the business. iSTAR is one of the programs Dungganon delivers in order to capacitate our members to better their businesses,” said Gilbert Stephan Maramba, Director for Operations at the NWTF.

Expanding support through Centers for Entrepreneurship

Launched in 2020, the iSTAR Program is a free entrepreneurship training initiative by Coca-Cola Philippines and TESDA. It is designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with essential skills for starting and managing retail businesses through digital platforms.

In July 2024, Coca-Cola Philippines launched Centers for Entrepreneurship (CFEs) in seven key areas under the iSTAR Program. These hubs serve as sustainable spaces for ongoing training, mentorship, and financial support, ensuring that small business owners have access to resources that help them thrive.

“To our graduates, your journey does not end here. The CFEs are your "go-to" spaces for continuous learning, business mentoring, and exploring new opportunities for innovation. As graduates, you are always welcome to visit the NWTF CFE, where you’ll find support and guidance to help you grow and sustain your businesses,” Dela Torre added.

For more information about the iSTAR Program, visit the Coca-Cola Philippines Sustainability Hub: https://www.coca-cola.com/ph/en/brands/coca-cola/sustainability.

Here Are Six Amazing Picks for On-the-Go Professionals at Logitech’s 4.4 Shopee Travel Tech Fest!

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Get big discounts of up to 30% in vouchers, free shipping, and flexible buy now, pay later options!

Going out or working remotely doesn’t have to impede productivity. Logitech, the global leader of gaming and PC peripherals, is introducing a lineup of premium and travel-friendly accessories at a discount to make working beyond the office seamless and efficient.

Enjoy up to 30 percent off on selected Logitech items plus vouchers, free shipping, and zero-interest Buy Now, Pay Later options! Pick your favorites and enjoy unbeatable deals at Logitech’s 4.4 Shopee Travel Tech Fest!

Pebble 2 Keyboard and Mouse Combo: The stylish choice for the modern multitasker

Daily grinds don't have to feel and look dull! With the Pebble 2 Combo in your work arsenal, you can look stylish and be productive at the same time.

Thanks to Easy-Switch, you can effortlessly hop between three devices, whether it’s Windows, macOS, iPadOS, or Android. Even better, Logitech Options+ allows you to program your favorite shortcuts to your keys and mouse to streamline your workflow and ensure seamless control all day.

The Pebble 2 Combo blends minimalist design with a slim, modern look that stands out. This lightweight duo is built for on-the-go productivity, slipping effortlessly into your bag for work, play, or creativity anywhere. You also get quiet typing and clicking with Silent Touch Technology. Whatever the job requires, the Pebble 2 Combo is sure to deliver!

MX Anywhere 3s: Reliably versatile

Take control of your workflow with the MX Anywhere 3S, the compact mouse built for precision and versatility. Featuring an 8K DPI sensor, it tracks flawlessly on any surface -- even glass!

Scroll 1,000 lines per second with the ultra-fast MagSpeed wheel and enjoy softer clicks for focused productivity. You also get to seamlessly switch between multiple devices with Bluetooth or connect via the Logi Bolt receiver, giving you more ways to do your work efficiently.

With up to 70 days of battery life and customizable buttons, this mouse is always ready to keep up with you and your workload.

Zone Vibe 100: Nonstop vibes for all-day work and play

Why settle for ordinary when you can have headphones that match your vibrant lifestyle? The Zone Vibe 100 transforms how you work, play, and vibe. It’s lightweight, stylish, and most importantly, packed with powerful features that combine personality and next-level performance.

Stay connected during meetings with the noise-canceling flip-to-mute mic, then tuck it away for seamless movie nights or music sessions. With immersive 40mm drivers, Zone Vibe 100 fills your world with deep bass, crisp highs, and rich, distortion-free audio.

You don’t have to stay tethered to your desk -- enjoy total wireless freedom with up to 20 hours of listening time via Bluetooth. What’s more, the lightweight design and soft memory foam cups keep you comfortable all day long.

M650 Signature Mouse: Better scrolling and overall comfort

Work anywhere, seamlessly, with the M650 Signature Mouse. Its contoured shape fits perfectly in your hand, plus soft rubber side grips and a cozy thumb rest so you can click, scroll, and work for hours without any wrist discomfort.

Enjoy the satisfying feel of every click without the noise. Logitech’s SilentTouch technology reduces click sounds by 90%, keeping your workspace peaceful while maintaining the same responsive feedback.

SmartWheel scrolling adapts to your needs, giving you precision when working on details and speed when breezing through long pages. Plus, with a 24-month battery life, you can stay focused without interruptions.

Lift Vertical Ergonomic Wireless Mouse: Comfort that fits like a glove

Tired of wrist aches holding you back? The Lift Vertical Ergonomic Mouse is here to change exactly that. Made for small to medium hands, it keeps your grip in a natural handshake position, easing strain and letting you power through your tasks comfortably. The soft, textured grip and snug thumb rest also feel like they're custom-made just for you!

With quiet clicks and a silky-smooth scroll wheel, it’s as relaxing to use as it is functional. Whether it’s marathon work sessions or casual browsing, Lift lets you stay focused and comfy in style

Keys-To-Go 2: Your go-to keyboard for every device

For your on-the-go typing needs, the Keys-To-Go 2 is easily a must-have keyboard. Its ultra-slim, lightweight design slips easily into your bag, while the built-in cover protects the keys wherever you take it. When it’s time to get to work, flip it over and enjoy a fluid, laptop-like typing experience with perfectly spaced scissor keys that make every keystroke feel natural.

No matter your device, the Keys-To-Go 2 works seamlessly with Android, Chrome OS, Windows, iOS, and macOS. Add in a full row of shortcuts, customizable F-row functions via Logi Options+ App, and an impressive battery life, and you’ve got an incredibly versatile and dependable keyboard.

Wherever your work or adventure takes you, there’s something to discover at Logitech’s 4.4 Shopee Tech Sale. Make every workday a breeze and explore Logitech's Shopee stores amazing deals for you! 

For more information, visit Logitech’s official website and Facebook page for the latest product offerings and other future promotions.

The Travel Club Turns Over Hundreds of Luggage to OWWA to Support First-Time OFW

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In a poignant display of solidarity and support, The Travel Club has officially turned over its first batch of donated luggage to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), benefiting first-time Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) as they embark on new journeys abroad.

The Donate Your Luggage For A Cause initiative, which allowed customers to trade-in their pre-loved luggage in exchange for exclusive discounts, collected hundreds of luggage, each with its own story of past adventures. Now, these bags are being repurposed to carry the dreams and aspirations of OFWs stepping into a new chapter of their lives. Shoppers came for the discounts, but they left knowing their pre-loved luggage would help someone else start a new journey.

During the first turnover event, 100 suitcases were distributed to first-time OFWs, symbolizing a practical travel necessity and well wishes of those who once carried them.

“Ang goal po namin ay ‘yong mga matanggap ninyong maleta ay magagamit ninyo sa inyong bagong simula,” said Sheena Valencia, Brand Manager of The Travel Club. “Kasama po ng mga maletang dadalhin ninyo ay ang aming panalangin na lagi po kayong gabayan sa destinasyon na paroroonan ninyo. Mula sa Primer Group of Companies, mag-ingat po kayong lahat.”

The heartfelt turnover was also graced by OWWA Administrator Arnel Ignacio, who underscored the importance of financial wisdom and perseverance in the face of new challenges.

“Ikaw ang mukha ng bayaning Pilipinong handang lumipad para sa pangarap,” Ignacio shared. He also encouraged the recipients to be strategic in their spending to ensure long-term stability. “Kailangan paglabas ay galingan. Mag-set ka ng goal, para kahit mahirap ang mga kakaharapin, alam mong hindi mahirap kasi may gusto kang abutin. Kaya dapat ang goal niyo malinaw. Meron tayong The Travel Club, OWWA, DFA—lahat ‘yan handang tumulong sa inyo.”

The event was a reminder of the sacrifices OFWs make and the importance of having a strong support system as they leave their families behind in search of better opportunities.

Beyond assisting travelers, The Travel Club’s Donate Your Old Case for A Cause also champions sustainability by reducing waste and promoting responsible consumerism. With more turnovers scheduled in the coming months, the initiative continues to prove that every luggage carries not just belongings, but also stories, dreams, and a community's unwavering support.

“Set a goal, do your jobs well, and come home successfully!” Ignacio urged, closing the event with words of encouragement.

For more information on The Travel Club’s initiatives, visit thetravelclub.ph