“Save from Extinction: Save Them, Save Ourselves” Campaign

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The “Save From Extinction” campaign launched by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) aims to protect the six critically endangered animal species endemic to the Philippines – the Philippine eagle, tamaraw, dugong, Philippine cockatoo, pawikan (marine turtles), and Philippine pangolin.

Committed to protecting these remarkable creatures and their habitats, SM with BDO through platforms, are taking concrete steps to raise awareness and drive action through posters, videos, and fundraising booths in its malls that ensure their survival for future generations.

(In the photo) TV host RJ Ledesma, SM Prime Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy, SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Marketing Hanna Carinna Sy, DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga, SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, and with the fashion show models, from the Girl Scouts of the Philippines among others.

SM with BDO Unibank is inviting everyone, from eco-conscious advocates to young animal enthusiasts, to support the cause in style.

There are exciting cuddly toys from Toy Kingdom. SM has expanded its offerings to include chic new shirt designs from Kultura and a children’s apparel line from SM Fashion, merchandise lineup includes t-shirt designs for both adults and children in several colors, with each product highlighting one of the six endangered animals. Canvas tote bags featuring the animals are also available for purchase.

Merchandise is available in select Kultura and Toy Kingdom branches: SM Podium, SM Mall of Asia, SM Aura, SM North EDSA, and SM Makati.

Turn compassion into action and join the fight to save endangered wildlife. Join the fight to save wildlife by purchasing your own “Save from Extinction” merchandise.

Shakira Yu FVP and head of Branch experience, BDO Unibank

A key partner in the campaign, Banco De Oro (BDO) Unibank, Inc., is leveraging its vast nationwide network to support the campaign, offering donation channels through its ATMs and branches nationwide as well as through the BDO Online app.

This integration makes it easier for the public to contribute, extending the reach of the campaign to thousands of communities.

DENR has also partnered with wildlife conservation groups to safeguard these animals, such as the Forest Foundation Philippines, Katala Foundation, Philippine Eagle Foundation, World Wide Fund for Nature–Philippines, D’Aboville Foundation, and the Zoological Society of London.

All collected funds will go to the partner NGOs dedicated to the conservation of these species.

For more information, visit www.smsupermalls.com/save-from-extinction

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Bell-Kenz Pharma and TV5 Alagang Kapatid Foundation seal partnership in making life better for Filipinos

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Bell-Kenz Pharma, Inc recently launched a multi-pronged collaboration with TV5 Alagang Kapatid Foundation aimed at augmenting the medical and healthcare initiatives for the vulnerable sectors of the society.

(L-R) Patrick Larraga, Corporate Branding + PR Head of Bell-Kenz Pharma, Dr. James Cayetano, Director of Bell-Kenz, Mr. Dino Laurena, Media5 Chief Operating Officer, and Ms. Menchie Silvestre, Executive Director of Alagang Kapatid Foundation, Inc.

Staying true to its mission of making Filipino lives better, Bell-Kenz Pharma also brings to the Alagang Kapatid program its health information segment, “Real Talk with Dok.” The health information online advocacy conceptualized and started by Barangay Bell-Kenz, Real Talk with Dok features timely and relevant health topics with trusted and reliable medical experts.

Dr. James Cayetano, Director of Bell-Kenz is optimistic about the results of the collaboration with TV5 Alagang Kapatid Foundation. “We at Bell-Kenz Pharma are grateful for the opportunity to extend our help to the underserved communities. It is through this partnership that we strive to make lives better for our kababayans,” he said.

“This partnership with TV5 Alagang Kapatid bolsters the initiatives of Bell-Kenz Pharma to bridge gaps in healthcare by providing medical information that are relevant in improving the lives of Filipinos,” says Patrick Larraga, Corporate Branding + PR Head of Bell-Kenz Pharma.

Together with Media5 Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Dino Laurena, Ms. Menchie Silvestre, Executive Director of Alagang Kapatid Foundation, Inc., expresses her gratitude for the support of Bell-Kenz Pharma.

“This is not a simple partnership, but a life saving partnership for the people who ask for medical help from Alagang Kapatid Foundation. Bell-Kenz Pharma and Alagang Kapatid Foundation bridge the resources for the people who need to be alive today. For that we are very grateful to Bell-Kenz Pharma.”

Bell-Kenz Pharma, Inc and Alagang Kapatid Foundation, stronger together in making lives better for the Filipinos. For more information about Bell-Kenz Pharma, visit https://www.bell-kenz.net, YouTube account @Bell-KenzPharma, and Tiktok bellkenzpharma.

Grab Philippines Celebrates Earth Day 2025, Kicks Off Mangrove Planting Project in La Union

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DULAO, LA UNION – Grab Philippines has planted the first 1,000 of 80,000 pledged mangrove trees in Dulao, La Union, marking an early milestone in its newly launched Green Programme. Done in celebration of Earth Day 2025, the initiative underscores the superapp’s broader push to embed environmental sustainability into the country’s ride-hailing and on-demand delivery industries.

Grab Philippines Director for Strategy Greg Camacho [1st from right] and Grab’s Head of Group Sustainability Iris Chang [2nd from right] spearheaded the planting of the initial batch of mangrove trees in Dulao, La Union, together with volunteer Grab users, driver-partners, and employees

The Green Programme, which was launched in the Philippines in February 2025, empowers users to play an active role in environmental stewardship through tech. By enabling the Green Program toggle on the Grab App, users get to contribute PHP 2 for every GrabCar ride and PHP 1 for every GrabFood or GrabMart delivery transaction.

GrabForGood Forest in Dulao, La Union

One of the flagship initiatives to emerge from the program is the GrabForGood Forest in Dulao, La Union — a planned five-hectare mangrove enrichment site set to nurture thousands of mangrove seedlings. The initiative is a collaboration between Grab, the Dulao Fishpond and Fishpen Producer’s Cooperative, the Philippine-based sustainability NGO Fostering Education and Environment for Development (FEED), and the environmental tech platform EcoMatcher.

La Union's coastal village of Dulao is among the communities in the country that grapple with escalating water and food security threats driven by climate change, notably rising sea levels, and intensifying typhoons. Mangrove enrichment has become a pivotal strategy to fortify natural defenses. This initiative is a cornerstone of the "Ridge to Reef" (R2R) strategy, championed by FEED and Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU), alongside various private, public, academic, NGO, and community-led efforts in La Union. This collective endeavor fosters an enabling environment for inclusive, integrated, multi-stakeholder collaboration aimed at sustainable development. Mangrove forests are crucial habitats for marine biodiversity and enhance the livelihoods of Dulao’s fishing community.

The Dulao Fishpond and Fishpen Producer's Cooperative is at the forefront of sustainability efforts in their community, emphasizing the critical role of environmental action and conservation in supporting their livelihood and daily lives.

The project kicked off with the community mangrove-planting event led by volunteer Grab users, driver-partners, employees, representatives from partner organizations, and the local community — a grassroots push to anchor long-term resilience. FEED and the Dulao Fishpond and Fishpen Cooperative took an active role in facilitating the orientation, providing a comprehensive introduction on proper mangrove planting techniques, and explaining the positive impact of this initiative on the community. 

Delailah Lacadue, Head of Dulao Fishpond and Fishpen Producer's Cooperative, notes, “We wish to express our gratitude to Grab, FEED, DMMMSU, the local government of Aringay, EcoMatcher, and to all stakeholders for this mangrove enrichment project. This will surely help us in terms of environmental protection and livelihood as well. Kami po ay kasama ninyo sa pangangalaga ng Kalikasan para sa mga susunod pang henerasyon. We, the local community, commit to being your active partner for sustainability.”

“This is just the beginning — a pivotal first step in our long-term commitment to environmental sustainability,” said Greg Camacho, Director for Strategy at Grab Philippines. “The Green Programme is grounded in a simple yet powerful idea: when eco-friendly choices are made easy, inclusive, and accessible, they can inspire real positive impact for communities like Dulao. The planting of this first wave of mangroves, made possible by initial contributions via the Green Programme, proves that climate action doesn’t have to be distant or difficult—it can be seamlessly integrated into the daily lives of millions.”

The partnership with EcoMatcher enables tree tracking, ensuring transparency in where contributions are directed. “For sustainability-minded consumers, transparency is key,” said Bas Fransen, CEO of EcoMatcher. “Partnering with Grab Philippines through the Green Programme allows us to bring our advocacy for transparency-driven sustainability closer to Filipino consumers in a meaningful way.”

With growing participation among users, the leading superapp is geared to scale the environmental impact of the Green Programme and turn individual contributions into lasting, collective change in more areas across the country.

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QC Councilor Kate Coseteng Advancing Women’s Rights and Empowerment in the Philippines

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Quezon City Councilor Kate Galang-Coseteng pushes Kababaihan Partylist advocacy for the rights and welfare of Filipino women.

This 2025 election, first nominee Councilor Kate Coseteng aims Kababaihan Partylist to secure a seat in the House of Representatives with its goal to represent strong and credible advocate for the rights and welfare of Filipino women. Running under the banner “Kakampi ng Kababaihan”, the partylist aims to bring critical women’s issues to the forefront of national policy.

Councilor Kate Coseteng is a three-term Quezon City Councilor and the current Minority Floor Leader. Her experience in local governance spans over a decade, with a previous stint as a three- term councilor in Valenzuela City from 2004 to 2013. Her deep understanding of legislative work is evident in her authorship of several key ordinances.

With a career and projects in public service and advocacy, Coseteng aims to champion women's economic empowerment and push for legal reforms that address the unique challenges faced by Filipino women these days.​

Championing Women’s Rights

Running under the number #128, this sectoral group brings forward legislative solutions that address the everyday challenges faced by women, mothers, and members of marginalized communities including #LGBTQIA+ individuals.

The Kababaihan Partylist focus on their platforms to present concrete solutions to the real-life struggles of Filipino women and the LGBTQIA+ sector.

Championing Women's Economic Empowerment

• Microfinance Law for Women

Recognizing the systemic barriers that hinder women's financial independence, Coseteng proposes a Micro-Finance Support in Business for Women program.

"We will be giving business loans to women so they can empower themselves financially, and not be forced to stay with abusive life partners for survival," Coseteng shared to the bloggers during the Kababaihan Partylist Meet and Greet held April 14, 2025.

This initiative seeks to provide accessible loans ranging from ₱25,000 to ₱500,000, tailored for small to medium enterprises led by women. By simplifying the loan process and offering financial literacy training, the program aims to empower women to pursue entrepreneurship without the intimidation of complex bureaucratic procedures.​

Advocacy for a Fair and Accessible Divorce Law

• Proposed Divorce Bill

Coseteng believes that legalizing divorce is a crucial step in protecting those trapped in abusive marriages. Her position challenges the traditional view of marriage in the Philippines, where divorce remains illegal. Coseteng’s advocacy stems from a deep understanding of the plight of women who suffer silently within their homes, often with no legal recourse.

"Annulment in the Philippines is extremely expensive, making it impossible for many women to leave unhappy or unsafe marriages. Divorce should be fair, accessible, and capable of providing financial security for women and their children," Coseteng states. ​

Coseteng advocates for a revised divorce bill that maintains clear grounds—such as domestic violence, abandonment, infidelity, and drug abuse—while ensuring the process is accessible and not financially prohibitive. This approach seeks to protect the sanctity of marriage while providing a viable escape for those in irreparable and harmful relationships.

​- Night Care Center and Tahanan ng Kababaihan

Kababaihan Partylist also wants to institutionalize a center that will act as nighttime refuge for single women working late hours, ensuring their kids and families safety and security.

- LGBTQIA + Safe Space

Kababaihan Partylist pushes to further help in LGBTQIA+ causes, a new more general form of gender equality bill.

Not just for women, Kababaihan Partylist also acknowledges the discrimination and challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. Providing safe space where LGBTQIA+ individuals can be respected and be functional freely without fear.

Not just a political group, this sectoral group is an advocate for women and members of LGBTQIA+ by creating safe space to reach their maximum potential.

#128 Kababaihan Party-List

• Proposed Divorce Bill
• Microfinance Law for Women
• Night Care Center
• Tahanan ng Kababaihan
• LGBTQIA + Safe Space

Coseteng's candidacy under Kababaihan Partylist represents a commitment to addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by Filipino women. Her focus on economic empowerment and legal reform underscores a broader vision of a society where women are not just surviving but thriving.

As the 2025 elections approach, Councilor Kate Coseteng's platform offers a roadmap for inclusive and progressive change.

Read more on Kababaihan Partylist's mission to uplift and protect the rights of women in the Philippines, visit the Kababaihan Partylist Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/kababaihanpartylist

PHINMA Education partnered with Lenovo to consolidate all its devices across its institutions into a unified ecosystem

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Only one out of every four Filipino students who enter first grade will complete a tertiary degree — a harsh reality for many youths who lack the financial means to pursue higher education. PHINMA Education, a private educational organization, is working to change this by offering educational courses from college to university level at subsidized rates through its twelve educational institutions in the Philippines and Indonesia. To date, PHINMA Education has helped over 144,000 students and offers more than 110 programs across its network of schools. Many students enrolled in these institutions are the first in their families to achieve a tertiary education, whether that be a degree or a diploma.

Aiming to streamline its IT infrastructure, PHINMA Education partnered with Lenovo to consolidate all its devices across its institutions into a unified ecosystem. This collaboration equips staff with advanced devices and software, creating engaging and effective learning environments through personalized learning and access to digital content.

Simplifying Management

A key challenge PHINMA Education faced was the use of multiple technology brands for its endpoint computing devices. This made IT management complicated, resulting in inconsistent and incompatible support across campuses. To streamline operations, PHINMA Education sought to consolidate its technology with a single partner to facilitate quicker decision-making, reduce operational costs, and simplify data migration to the cloud.

Laying the Bedrock for Educational Initiatives

Focused on equipping graduates with essential skills to thrive in the workforce, PHINMA Education implemented the Lenovo EdVision program. With this program, teachers can effectively integrate technology into their teaching practices and create curricula that leverage digital tools for enhanced learning. Together with Lenovo’s Device as a Service (DaaS) offering, it supports PHINMA Education in optimizing resource allocation and minimizing downtime.

With Lenovo managing its IT infrastructure, PHINMA Education can focus on enhancing its educational delivery, providing top-notch education to its students using the latest technologies and advanced teaching methods.

Bringing This Partnership Further

In just two years, PHINMA Education acquired about 2,000 devices, with plans for an additional 1,000 by 2025. Future developments include integrating Lenovo’s TruScale Device as a Service and Managed Services for a consistent, reliable supply of quality devices and always-on IT support to better support PHINMA’s education mission.

With support from Lenovo, PHINMA Education will continue empowering youths from low-income families to break the cycle of poverty as it expands its reach throughout Southeast Asia.

DigiPlus uplifts communities through ₱100M commitment to community projects

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DigiPlus Interactive, through its social development arm, BingoPlus Foundation, is transforming communities and creating lasting impact with its ₱100 million commitment in 2024 to support education, disaster relief, and livelihood programs, benefitting the lives of over 120,000 Filipinos across the country.

In 2024, DigiPlus launched PLUS Centers across the country, providing free internet access, digital literacy training, and educational resources to underserved communities. These centers serve as safe learning spaces where students and job seekers can develop the skills needed to thrive in the digital age.

At the heart of its education initiatives is the PLUS Factor Scholarship Program, which empowers over 60 students nationwide, providing full scholarships, financial assistance, and mentorship opportunities to deserving Filipino students. By investing in the next generation of leaders in STEM, business, and digital innovation, DigiPlus is helping build a knowledge-driven economy.

Following Typhoon Kristine, DigiPlus allocated ₱37 million in emergency aid, delivering critical relief, rebuilding support, and sustainable livelihood assistance to affected communities. This initiative reflects the company’s commitment to long-term resilience and disaster recovery efforts. Additionally,

Beyond disaster relief, DigiPlus invests in sustainable livelihood programs, equipping individuals with resources, training, and tools to achieve economic independence. Through skills development and job readiness initiatives, the company is creating opportunities that uplift families and empower local communities.

“True success is measured not just by business growth, but by the impact we make in people’s lives,” said DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco. “Through the BingoPlus Foundation, we are empowering scholars, bridging the digital divide, rebuilding communities, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. This is how we make a difference.”

With its focus on education, digital access, disaster resilience, and community empowerment, DigiPlus is building a brighter future for Filipinos, one initiative at a time.

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About DigiPlus Interactive Corp.

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced leading platforms BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, widely known for their engaging experiences in interactive gaming and sports entertainment. DigiPlus also operates SpinPlus and GameZone, with more to come. For more information, visit: www.digiplus.com.ph.

Empowering Women and Girls Through Softball: Join ASA-PHIL's International Women's Day Softball Clinic on March 8, 2025 in Imus City

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In celebration of International Women's Day, the Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines (ASA-PHIL) is excited to announce the upcoming International Women's Day Softball Clinic on March 8, 2025, at the Imus Truck Oval, Imus City, Cavite. 

This free clinic is designed to engage women and girls of all ages and skill levels who are eager to explore the sport of softball, with the goal of fostering empowerment, gender equality, and physical wellness. 

The clinic is open to all participants, from beginners to advanced players, and will feature expert instruction, hands-on drills, and friendly competition. ASA-PHIL aims to use this event as a platform to inspire more women to get involved in sports and highlight the incredible potential women have in excelling in athletic fields traditionally dominated by men. 

Jean Henri Lhuillier, President of ASA-PHIL, emphasized the importance of empowering women through sports: "Softball is more than just a game—it is a tool for empowerment. This clinic is not only about improving skills but also about building confidence, fostering teamwork, and promoting gender equality in sports. The women and girls who participate will not only gain valuable skills but will also become part of a larger movement that champions inclusivity and wellness for all." 

This initiative also aims to spotlight the growing success of the RP Blu Girls, the national women's softball team, who have made remarkable strides in international competitions. Their recent victories in various regional tournaments have made them a source of national pride and an inspiration for young women aspiring to pursue sports at the highest level. 

In addition to the clinic, ASA-PHIL is committed to boosting the popularity of softball across the country. The association is dedicated to creating more opportunities for women and girls to develop their athletic potential, leading to a stronger presence of Filipino female athletes in regional and international sports arenas.

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Event Details: 

Date: March 8, 2025 Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM 

Location: Imus Truck Oval, Imus City, Cavite 

Who Can Join: Women and girls of all ages and skill levels 

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Participants are encouraged to bring comfortable sports attire, water, and a positive attitude. The event is free of charge, and no prior experience in softball is required to join.

Hope and Light: DigiPlus, BingoPlus Foundation Delivers Resilience in Action in South Luzon

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DigiPlus Interactive, through its social development arm, BingoPlus Foundation, continued efforts in promoting resilience in vulnerable communities by bringing its KabuhayanPLUS program in South Luzon regions. Anchoring on disaster response and sustainable livelihood, the Foundation delivered solar solutions in Mangyan Indigenous People (IP) communities in Mindoro and financial assistance to typhoon victims in Bicol Region as part of post-disaster recovery initiatives.

DigiPlus and BingoPlus Foundation delivers solar solutions in remote communities and recovery assistance to disaster-stricken families, as part of its KabuhayanPLUS resilience program.

Lighting Up IP Communities of Mindoro

Bright lights and bright smiles spread across the Mangyan Indigenous People (IP) community as BingoPlus Foundation trekked the mountains of Manalansay, Oriental Mindoro to provide solar lights and solar generators in response to Samahan ng Magbubukid ng Manaul or SaMa Manaul’s request for assistance to solve their electricity problems.

From the challenge of completing housework and studies in the dark, Mangyan households now benefit from solar powered lights from BingoPlus Foundation.

According to IP residents of Manaul, the lack of electricity has impacted their ability to maximize hours to produce their handicraft and other forms of livelihood. Children must also study despite the dark, reading by the furnace or with only a flashlight. Communications is also dependent on the ability to travel to the town proper to charge mobile phones.

“Even if I want to finish my work, I can’t because I can only work until there is light. As a mother, it really pains me to see my kids not being able to accomplish their requirements in school because it’s too dark to work at night,” said Liza Gayot, who’s been a long-time resident of Manaul. “I’m thankful for BingoPlus Foundation because you are the light of our life and home,” said Gayot. “After 20 years, we finally have lights in our own homes,” she added.

BingoPlus Foundation delivers its promise of supporting the Mangyan IP community’s decades-long challenge with electricity in the mountains of Mindoro.

Bringing Hope to Typhoon Victims in Bicol Region

Meanwhile, BingoPlus Foundation concluded its commitment to provide financial assistance to bereaved families of Super Typhoon Kristine, as part of a Php37 Million pledge initiated since November 2024. From January to February 2025, the Foundation collaborated with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office V in Bicol Region to provide financial aid to 74 affected families from Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, Catanduanes and Masbate.

DSWD Assistant Secretary Paul Ledesma and DSWD Regional Director Norman Laurio join BingoPlus Foundation Executive Director Angela Camins-Wieneke in a turnover ceremony in Pili, Camarines Sur.

The DSWD also donated family food packs, drinking water, hygiene supplies and first aid kits. The turnover ceremony held in Pili, Camarines Sur was joined by DSWD Assistant Secretary for Regional Operations Paul Ledesma and DSWD Bicol Regional Director Norman Laurio.

Janette Ojeda, a mother who lost her eldest son because of Typhoon Kristine, received her financial aid as she tries to continue living her life despite the tragedy she went through.

“Our hearts go out to all the families affected by Typhoon Kristine,” said Angela Camins-Wieneke, Executive Director of BingoPlus Foundation. “While the typhoon has since passed, the loss of loved ones – many of whom were breadwinners – is an additional burden to bear in the journey to recovery.” According to beneficiaries, the financial assistance of Php250,000 will be used not only for house repairs, but also to sustain the education of orphaned children and daily household needs of families left behind.

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About DigiPlus Interactive Corp.

DigiPlus Interactive Corp. pioneered digital entertainment in the Philippines. It introduced leading platforms BingoPlus and ArenaPlus, widely known for their engaging experiences in interactive gaming and sports entertainment. DigiPlus also operates PeryaGame, Tongits+, and GameZone, with more to come. For more information, visit: www.digiplus.com.ph.

A Culture of Doing Good: SM invests in quality education through Asia Pacific College

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Asia Pacific College (APC), a part of the SM group, continues to invest back in its students and the school through degree programs certified by international and local standards institutions. With a grand vision of university status on the horizon and strategic partnerships with esteemed institutions such as the University of Adelaide to bolster the quality of education it provides, APC is proving that it is in the business of social good.

A group of freshman students pose for the camera during their student orientation at the APC Auditorium as the school year 2024-2025 starts.

The SM group’s advocacy in championing education was realized when SM founder Henry Sy, Sr. through SM Foundation, Inc. partnered with IBM Philippines to establish APC in 1991 as a non-stock, non-profit institution.

“APC envisions becoming a leading institution in the region,” said APC President Dr. Ma. Teresita ‘Tata’ Medado. “Aiming to become a university is our mission in the next 4 to 5 years. APC has proven excellence in innovative teaching and learning. It is our goal to expand programs and reach out to more students especially those from underserved communities.”

At the start of the year, APC received certification from the ASEAN University Network-Quality Assurance (AUN-QA) for the following programs: Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, and Multimedia Arts. APC holds the distinction of being a Center of Excellence in IT Education since 2007 and a Center of Development in Computer Engineering since 2009.

APC’s computer engineering, computer science, information technology and multimedia arts programs are now certified by the ASEAN University Network-Quality Assurance (AUN-QA) Standard.

The AUN-QA certification indicates that the programs recognized have met the high standards of quality in terms of teaching, research, and overall academic delivery.

“This recognition is a testament to our commitment to excellence in education and our dedication to providing top-tier academic programs,” added Dr. Medado.

APC’s international accolade is further complemented by its consistent delivery of quality education retaining its Autonomous Status from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for seven consecutive years. The status was granted by CHED citing APC’s steady high performance in areas such as curriculum development, faculty qualifications, research output, and community service.

Meaningful partnerships

The institution first established a landmark partnership with Carnegie Mellon University- Australia (CMU-A) in 2022 and continues to expand its collaboration with the University of Adelaide (UofA) in 2024. This led to the delivery of capacity-building programs for faculty, staff, and government professionals, with the support and funding from Australia Awards Scholarships, a program offering candidates from a wide range of countries to undertake postgraduate studies in Australia.

Student welfare is also a part of APC’s initiatives with the recently launched Digital Defender Program in the last quarter of 2024 together with Gogolook, a key player in the TrustTech industry. The Taiwan-based developer introduced the Whoscall application, a global anti-scam software that provides users with top tools and free features to help them avoid online scams.

APC students join the launch of GogoLook’s Digital Defender program, a new partnership of the college to equip the community with cybersecurity measures for an empowered and safer digital space.

“We seek to empower students with greater awareness of online safety and cybersecurity through this app,” said Dr. Medado.

“The value of GogoLook extends to professional ethics and character formation. We are preparing our students to become responsible global citizens,” she added.

As part of APC’s vision to become a university, Dr. Medado said the school aims to be more responsive to industry needs in order to bring access to quality education for all.

For the coming year, APC aims to uphold the standards of quality education that it has set in its QS 5-star ratings across four categories namely: inclusivity through a wide array of scholarships; online learning via Hyflex (Hybrid-Flexible), which emphasizes empathy, equity, and engagement; flexible teaching methods; and, employability with 92.8% of graduates securing key positions in the industry.

APC is now focusing on improving the category of internationalization emphasizing transnational collaborations, exchange programs, international students, and other related initiatives.

This is aligned with its mission of giving educational opportunities through differentiated and enhanced pathways to help develop productive citizens of the global economy.

EastWest Rural Bank Supports National Children's Month Celebration in Tacloban City

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In honor of National Children’s Month, EastWest Rural Bank (EWRB) joined hands with the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Learners’ Rights and Protection Office (LRPO) for a meaningful and impactful celebration hosted by Region VIII. The well-attended event took place on November 25, 2024, at the People’s Center in Tacloban City, leaving a lasting impression on participants and stakeholders alike.

With over 400 attendees, including students, teachers, DepEd representatives, and local officials coming from different regions, the event highlighted the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for Filipino children by engaging, empowering, and equipping the youth with the tools they need to thrive in school.

"At EastWest Rural Bank, we are dedicated to empowering communities and creating opportunities that transform lives," said Sheila Marasigan-Bajado, President.

EastWest Rural Bank demonstrated its focus on uplifting communities through education and support. The bank’s team actively engaged with participants throughout the entire event, providing over 100 educational kits to selected students and distributing giveaways, such as fans, mini notebooks, and ball pens to attendees. These contributions reflect EWRB’s ongoing efforts to promote learning and community involvement. EWRB also took the opportunity to showcase its Komo mobile app, which offers user-friendly and secure banking features tailored to modern lifestyles.

Asec Dexter A. Galban of DepEd praised the solid support of partners like EastWest Rural Bank in his keynote address, emphasizing the impact of collaborations in creating opportunities for Filipino learners. "Collaborations like these with EastWest Rural Bank are vital in creating opportunities that inspire and empower our Filipino learners," Galban pointed out.

DepEd Region VIII Director Evelyn R. Fetalvero also acknowledged EWRB during her opening remarks, expressing gratitude for the bank's consistent participation in educational initiatives. "We deeply appreciate EastWest Rural Bank’s support for our educational initiatives and support to the welfare of our youth," said Fetalvero.

The event concluded with a pledge of commitment and unity dance, symbolizing the collective effort to ensure a brighter future for Filipino children.

In celebration of EastWest Bank’s 30th Anniversary, this initiative reflects EWRB’s ongoing dedication to corporate social responsibility, championing education, and uplifting the communities it serves, exemplifying the bank’s promise of going “Further for You.”

For more information about EastWest Rural Bank’s initiatives and services, please visit www.eastwestruralbank.com.ph.

Globe joins global call for action on World Food Day 2024

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Supporting hunger relief through Hapag Movement, employee volunteerism

As hunger rates continue to rise across the country, Globe reinforced its commitment to addressing food insecurity in observance of World Food Day 2024, guided by the global call for "Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future—Leave No One Behind."

Through its Hapag Movement and Employee Volunteering Engagement Program, Globe has provided essential food support for individuals and families, including Indigenous Peoples (IP) groups, suffering from involuntary hunger.

The latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey shows that 16.8% of Filipinos face moderate hunger, while 6.1% endure severe hunger. The crisis is most pronounced in Mindanao and the Visayas, where percentages have nearly doubled, disproportionately affecting low-income communities.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Globe rallied its employees and partners to deliver relief to those affected, fostering a culture of active community service and encouraging its workforce to create positive change.

In response, 480 employees joined a food repacking marathon at The Globe Tower together with Rise Against Hunger PH. This collective effort produced 3,060 food packs that benefitted 18,360 individuals in places devastated by recent typhoons.

Employee volunteers in Cebu City assisted in packing and distributing food supplies to 220 families at the Cebu City Operation Second Chance Center (CCOSCC) and Balay Samaritano, a collaboration between Globe and the Ayala Foundation.

“Globe’s commitment to nation-building is truly inspiring. Their employees’ dedication to volunteering to help our communities is commendable. Together, Ayala Foundation and Globe can make a significant impact in addressing hunger and improving lives,” said Marlito Cabigas, Senior Associate for VisMin, Corporate Citizenship & Volunteerism, Ayala Foundation.

Likewise, in partnership with Tzu Chi Foundation Davao, Globe employees supported the Sto. Niño Central Elementary School in Talaingod, Davao del Norte, providing food packs and cybersecurity education to 150 parents, including IP members, while facilitating SIM distribution to promote digital inclusion.

“Tzu Chi Foundation Philippines is truly grateful for this partnership. This initiative fosters inclusivity, particularly as we focus on our Indigenous Peoples (IPs) brothers and sisters here in Davao. Tzu Chi consistently supports such partnerships; by collaborating with like-minded organizations like Globe, we can achieve significant progress in creating a Globe of Good.” -Mine Heart B. Tantoy, RSW, Tzu Chi Davao Social Welfare Officer

"Our World Food Day initiatives are an extension of Hapag Movement’s goal of addressing hunger, especially in communities hit hardest by disasters and poverty," said Yoly Crisanto, Globe’s Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer. "By mobilizing our employees and collaborating with trusted partners, we aim to provide immediate relief while promoting long-term, sustainable development in the communities we serve."

Recently, Globe created and launched its #GlobeofGood Volunteering platform to reaffirm its commitment to volunteerism and make it easier for employees to search for and sign up for volunteering activities.

As a socially responsible company, Globe is dedicated to empowering communities through meaningful and sustainable initiatives, encouraging everyone to join the Hapag Movement and strengthen its reach.

To learn more about Globe’s hunger-alleviation efforts, visit https://www.globe.com.ph/GlobeOfGood.

'Tis the season of giving: 50,000 families receive noche buena packs from BDO Foundation

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Christmas comes alive in simple acts of kindness, generosity and bayanihan. In celebration of the season, BDO Foundation distributed gift packs to 50,000 families nationwide in line with its annual Handog Sa ’Yo ng BDO Foundation Christmas gift-giving initiative.

In partnership with non-governmental organizations Ako ang Saklay, Ako Bakwit, Caritas Philippines and Tanging Yaman Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of BDO Unibank mobilized BDO employee volunteers for the distribution, which was conducted in 90 different parishes and dioceses.

“Our goal with the Handog Sa ‘Yo program is to support families in various communities celebrate a brighter Christmas through our simple and humble contribution,” shared BDO Foundation president Mario Deriquito.

Christmas gift-giving initiative. Families all over the country receive noche buena gift packs from BDO Foundation.

More than 500 volunteers from BDO branches and head offices across the country participated in the distribution of noche buena packs, which contain holiday food items that families can serve in their gatherings.

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About BDO Foundation

BDO Foundation is the corporate social responsibility arm of BDO Unibank. Founded in 2008, the foundation contributes to nation-building by addressing the needs of various sectors of society through programs in the areas of financial inclusion, disaster response, rehabilitation and rebuilding. Supported by the BDO Unibank community and in partnership with local government units and non-governmental organizations, BDO Foundation mounts relief operations, rehabilitates rural health units, constructs school buildings and implements financial education programs across the country. Its corporate citizenship initiatives have been recognized at the Retail Banking Awards of Asian Banking & Finance magazine and Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards of Enterprise Asia. For more information, visit www.bdo.com.ph.