KodeGo bridges STEM gender-employment gap, opens new opportunities for women in tech

Tweet

KodeGo, the innovative online tech boot camp by Globe's 917Ventures, is charting a new course for women in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields by providing opportunities that aim to address gender disparity in local employment.

The Philippines currently exhibits a 22% gender-based disparity in the STEM workforce, the largest in Southeast Asia, according to a study by professional networking platform LinkedIn. Although women make up 58.8% of employees in non-STEM fields, this figure dramatically falls to a mere 36.3% within the STEM sectors.

KodeGo's mission to democratize education for all is proving to be instrumental in this context, equalizing opportunities for women in these rapidly evolving and highly sought-after disciplines.

The online boot camp has a curriculum patterned after in-demand tech skills and soft skills sought by companies. Short-term tech-related courses include Full-Stack Web Development, UX Design, and WordPress Development.

KodeGo has seen an increasing number of women enrolling in its programs, with the number rising as

KodeGo increased the number of boot camps it offers. Currently, women make up 26% of KodeGo’s student population, with a total of 572 as of June 2023– a testament to increased female interest in traditionally male-dominated fields because of KodeGo’s dedication to offering accessible, gender-neutral education.

"KodeGo is deeply committed to addressing the glaring STEM gender-employment gaps in the country," said Cristina Gervasio, Entrepreneur-in-Residence at KodeGo. "By providing quality training, we aim to empower Filipinos, no matter what their gender may be so that they could be more competitive in the IT industry. We envision a future where the tech world sees equal representation of genders, fostering innovation, diversity, and resilience."

Recognizing that the most significant drop in female representation in the STEM workforce occurs between graduation and employment, KodeGo is intensifying efforts to provide a seamless transition for its graduates. By partnering with top-tier companies, KodeGo ensures graduates receive first-rate education and gain hands-on experience in real-world projects, further cementing their place in the STEM workforce.

As an initiative under 917Ventures, KodeGo signifies the Globe Group's ongoing commitment to improving the caliber of Filipino software engineers and promoting gender equality in the tech sector.

For more information about KodeGo and 917Ventures and how they are empowering women in the STEM fields, please visit www.kodego.ph and www.917ventures.com.

---------------------

About KodeGo

KodeGo is a study now, pay later tech school offering boot camps on different IT courses to equip beginners, upskillers, and career shifters with critical and highly in-demand skills while offering company-matching support to jumpstart and progress their IT career. KodeGo is a portfolio company under Globe’s corporate venture builder, 917Ventures.

QC sets the pace of Smart, Digitalized City and other Takeaways at the KPMG Innovation Summit 2023

Tweet

The recently concluded KPMG Innovation Summit 2023 tagged “Making things happen: From Innovation to Execution” at the Fairmont Makati dove right into discussion on the promising state of technological innovation in the Philippines and launched two innovation milestones, the Global Tech Innovator and the KPMG Digital Government Center.

KPMG Philippines Chairman and CEO Sharon Dayoan 

KPMG in the Philippines Chairman and CEO Sharon Dayoan welcomed over a thousand participants, live and online, with eye-opening remarks: “In this era of unprecedented technology advancement, our world is undergoing a remarkable shi; and we are all privilege to have the chance to shape the world that we inhabit. Let us celebrate the power of innovation, technology and collaboration.”

Digitalized Government Services of Smart Cities

In support of emerging smart cities, KPMG in the Philippines launched during the summit its very own Digital Government Center, a one-stop shop that aims to help government agencies in their digital transformation journey.                                               

When it came to the first panel, Digital Government for Smart Cities, several panelists hailed the Quezon City local government as a trailblazer for automating government services and its immediate implementation of Presidential Executive Order 32 which streamlines the permit processing of telecommunication and Internet infrastructure in its city.                                       

According to panelist, Private Advisory Council on Digital Representative and City Savings Bank Head of Legal and Data Protection Officer for Private Sector Infrastructure Atty. Ernesto Herrera, “EO 32 reduces turnaround time of permit application for telecom and Internet Infrastructure requirements from the previous 2.5 years to 2.5 months enhancing bureaucratic efficiency by reducing red tape, streamlining processes across all government agencies.” 

QC City Administrator Michael Alimurung

QC City Administrator Michael Alimurung also explained in his keynote speech that the QC government spearheaded the execution of one of the EO 32’s feature which is the one-stop shop of permit applications, including that on construction permit applications which has spurred the development of telecommunication and Internet infrastructure in the country, crucial in the development of smart cites.                                       

How does having more access to data changed the capacity of local governments, given this opportunity to have wider digital highway that comes with this new EO? According to Aboitiz Chief Operating Officer for Smart Ci5es, Mr. Alvin Ng, “Data is the new oil.”

Having access to data fosters ci5zen engagement, eliminating citizen divide and driving efficiency. QC has been a great playbook in spurring ci5zen engagement and transforming the way we think about running smart ci5es in the future. It’s also about resource allocation. The more data you have, the more connected you are within any city. Governments can make decisions quicker.                 

ESG Technology is a Way of Life

ESG Technology panel discussion explored the world of existing and emerging technologies to address and monitor environmental impact, social responsibility and corporate governance. ESG Tech is all about thinking beyond profit. Not only does ESG give substantial returns on efficiency, it attracts and pays human capital especially the next generation. It practices inclusivity and diversity that goes beyond gender including age, socio-economic status and capability. ESG gives value to investors as well as the supply chain and brings in new markets.

AIM Graduate School of Business Head and Center for Sustainable Finance Executive Director Mr. Felipe Calderon says, “ESG is a way of life that goes beyond profitability. Incorporating ESG in corporate strategies enable companies to attract investors, employees, and customers. Even lenders will also be looking at ESG component of potential borrowers.”

For Globe Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer, Ms. Yoly Crisanto, the main mo5va5on for ESG incorporation is its alignment with Globe’s main purpose of sustainability and aim to uplift Filipino lives. Crisanto says, “The country is in the cusp of digital transformation. Use tech to make life convenient for citizens. We also need to adopt global best practices into the country. We take into consideration all the things that are happening globally and introduce them to our single market – the Philippines. We use technology to innovate, that’s why in Globe we have GCash, the no. 1 financial technology in the country that is doing a lot of innovation.”                                                    

Intelligent Processes through Artificial Intelligence                       

At the third panel, the Next Wave of Automaton, Analytics Association of the Philippines, President Ms. Michelle Alarcon explained “AI has been around since the 70’s and not a wave per se. Revival of the hype surrounding AI is because of the technologies particularly on computing and storage.”                              

According to Alarcon, no one is an expert yet on Generative AI. “We can be ready. We started with RPA (Robotics Process Automaton), simple automation of task with rules that are well defined. You can think of AI as something that makes that process more intelligent. They can work with each other and go hand in hand,” says Alarcon.                                              

Concepcion Business Services President and COO, Mr. Eric Sarmiento delved on the key benefits of Robo5cs, “It forces you to re-think your existing processes which leads to more efficiency and cost avoidance of rework. Because of the relentless automation we were able to reduce repetitive work by a significant rate.”                           

Robotic Process Automation Philippines Founder and President, Mr. Allan Tan discussed how robo5cs can drive efficiency, savings and business growth. “When RPA started nobody understood the company but now companies are starting to understand its advantages. In the Philippines, 70% of processes still involve a lot of the repetitive work including data cleansing, downloading files, constructing data, and aggregating certain reports but more and more companies are starting to see the impact and cost effectiveness of Robotics.” 

Game-changing innovators on disruptive technologies

The fourth and final panel discussed disruptive strategies and mindsets behind some of the most successful disruptors in the business today including Alliance of Tech Innovators for Nation Lead Convenor and DICT Former Undersecretary, Mr. Mon Ibrahim; Fuse Lending President and CEO Mr. Tony Isidro; Digital Pilipinas Convenor and GeiserMaclang Co-founder, Ms. Amor Maclang; Inpay Co-Founder and CEO Mr. Arivuvel Ramu; Angkas Co-founder and CEO, Mr. George Royeca; Mayani Co-founder and CEO JT Solis.

QBO's online conference empowers startups in the face of COVID-19

Tweet

Over 100 startup and technology leaders from 20 cities across the Philippines, other parts of Southeast Asia, and the United States gathered together in a five-day virtual training conference organized by QBO Innovation Hub together with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). The conference aims to elevate the capacities of Technology Business Incubators (TBIs) in the country.

Speakers of the virtual conference share different aspects of startup operations from remote global locations. Photo credit: QBO Innovation Hub

TBIs are facilities that house startups and equip their business development. They ensure the sustainability of the startup’s operation, the advancement of entrepreneurs, and partnership of the startups with public sectors.

"During this difficult time, the need to come together and work on solutions is placed at the forefront of innovation. Now is the best time for us incubator managers and technology leaders to help give birth to new startups and develop existing ones,” shared QBO Operations Head Natasha Bautista.

QBO Operations Head Natasha Bautista emphasized the importance of leadership and the clarity of the mission and vision in the day-to-day business of a startup. Photo credit: QBO Innovation Hub

DOST, for its part, is keen on paving the road through tech-enabled assembly as it aligns with the agency’s #RoadTo100Startups initiative to support the training and development of startup industry leaders all over the country and enable a rise in the number of Filipino startups. 

DOST Executive Director Dr. Enrico C. Paringit remarked, “We at the DOST, firmly believe in the startups’ vital role in our nation’s future. With the right support and resources, their capacities are limitless. We aim to empower them and elevate their operations so they can remain at the forefront of innovation. That’s why conferences like these are so important.”

Funding support for startups 

Insights from the conference focused on the creation of incubator programs, use of creative marketing tools, planning of effective online campaigns, fostering of startup engagement, development of incubators in university setting, and garnering of stakeholder support especially during times of crisis.

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, examining company values may prove particularly apt. It’s during a crisis that startups who can provide solutions may need more funding.

Innovative startups will also need to know how to remain relevant. That’s why in a session focusing on the best ways to generate buzz for a startup, tech media outlet e27 co-founder Thaddeus Koh encouraged startups to improve their public relations tactics and invest in their relationship with the media as it will help drive awareness for their brand. “PR is about telling the best story about someone else,” explained Koh.

The pandemic has also shown why there is a need for strong startup support and funding. Early-stage venture fund and seed accelerator 500 Startups was represented by Singapore Country Lead EE Ling Lim. According to her, accelerators and incubators always make sure to ask startup founders about what they want their startups to get out of their programs. 

Lim was joined by their Partnerships Director Thomas Jeng who bared that operations require paying the bills, thus strong support is needed. “Accelerators and incubators need to pay for staff and related expenses: grants, and stipends, and entrepreneurs; office space and other overhead; marketing and PR for the programs as well as ongoing events especially those that are trying to build sustainable communities around entrepreneurship, ranging from demo days to happy hours, to networking events,” he explained. 

Working together to solve problems

Collaborations are not only possible during crises but are also welcomed under normal circumstances. This was highlighted by Plug and Play Tech Center’s Co-Founder Jojo Flores, who talked about “Bridging the Startup-Corporate Gap.”

As a large organization itself, Plug and Play Tech Center invests in around 200 early stage startups per year and works with over 400 large global networks. “Corporations have accepted that a lot of new technologies, new ideas and innovation is really happening outside their environment,” said Flores. “It’s all about creating this platform whereby startups can collaborate with the various stakeholders, whether corporations, VCs, etc.”

QBO brings its community online in a virtual conference to continue empowering and honing their operations amidst COVID-19. Photo credit: QBO Innovation Hub

In the Philippines, for example, startups step up to help combat COVID-19 through collaborating with the private sector and the government. DOST, in collaboration with Developers Connect, helped launch the RapidPass system where frontliners manning checkpoints can easily inspect vehicles and individuals by scanning QR codes. Tech startup Senti is working closely with the Department of Health (DOH) by providing the knowledge-base for the chatbots in DOH’s different channels to address COVID-19-related inquiries while Multisys developed the online and mobile platform StaySafe.ph which aims to help the government in conducting efficient contact tracing. Limitless Lab, in partnership with The Asia Foundation, developed LGU vs COVID PH, an easy-to-use, updated, and reliable dashboard of all COVID-19 related information which LGUs can use and refer to.

Academes stepping up to develop startups

Collaboration in the interest of innovation isn’t limited solely between corporations and startups. Schools, for one, also definitely play a role in the innovation ecosystem.

This was the topic covered by Rick Rasmussen, an industry fellow at UC Berkeley’s Sutardja Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology. During his session he explored not only the evolution of incubator and accelerator programs but also the various ways schools such as UC Berkeley mentor startups and foster environments that will help them grow. Here, he cited examples such as Northwestern University’s “Experiential Entrepreneurship Course” and UC Berkeley’s “Disrupt Berkeley” to illustrate how academe collaborates with startups to enable their growth. 

In “Disrupt Berkeley”, for instance, Rasmussen details how that class covered the idea of social entrepreneurships. “We talked about how you do mission-based interviews and goals, and identify impact. We also covered problem-solution in social entrepreneurship mode.” It was during this class that Rasmussen was able to guide his students to create projects of their own that would solve various issues around campus. 

It’s this sort of guidance that startups can do with, especially in a challenging and unprecedented crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic. With schools playing their role in the startup ecosystem, startups can look back on the values of social entrepreneurship and solving real-world problems.

Apart from the technical aspect of operations, the key takeaway from the training conference is that there is a glimmer of hope even in tough times, the Filipino startup community is still rallying and going strong. In fact, it may be them that best ensures our country can have a future to look forward to, and so the push by QBO and DOST to encourage the growth of Filipino startups is now timelier than ever.

“There is a need to support our startups now, more than ever,” concluded Bautista. “Because startups and what they bring–digitalization, automation, speed–will be what we need to keep going in the post COVID-world.”

ABOUT QBO

QBO (‘ku-bo’) is an innovation hub or a platform for the startup community to collaborate, develop talent, and grow. It provides startups with support and resources through events and capacity building programs as well as focused interventions designed to improve access to markets, knowledge, capital, and talent. QBO is the country’s first public-private initiative for startups, created through a partnership between IdeaSpace, J.P. Morgan, Department of Science and Technology, and Department of Trade and Industry.

Spurred on by the vision of Filipinos startups changing the world, QBO’s mission is to create a globally competitive startup ecosystem in the Philippines.

Center of Innovation rises in Valenzuela OLFU unveils RISE Tower

Tweet

Progress is spurred by ideas born out of creativity, breaking beyond the confines of what is deemed as conventional. To continually develop, society needs more innovative minds – thinkers who refuse to stagnate, and citizens who act towards advancement. 

Distinguished guests join the OLFU Administrators in the Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony. L-R: OLFU Executive Vice President Don August O. Santos; University President, Dr. Caroline Marian S. Enriquez; Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Kalookan, Most Rev. Deogracias S. Iñiguez, Jr., D.D.; CHED Commissioner Aldrin Darilag; Senator Win Gatchalian; Valenzuela City Mayor Rex Gatchalian; Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Yvonne S. Guevara; Fatima University Medical Center President, Dr. Vicente O. Santos. 

In “improving man as man”,  believes that innovation powers the nation; hence its dedication to creating modern, empowering spaces for the promising learners and future visionaries. 

Very recently, OLFU once again affirmed its commitment through the blessing and inauguration of the Research, Innovation, Science and Enterprise Tower, better known as the RISE Tower. Situated in Marulas, Valenzuela City, the RISE is a highly advanced facility housing simulation laboratories and collaborative areas with cutting-edge equipment and technologies. 

“This facility was envisioned to serve as an integrated academic space where theories taught in the four walls of the classroom will be experienced and put into play”, University President Dr. Caroline Marian S. Enriquez said. Notably, the eight-story building features the Clinical Simulation Center furnished with training units and hi-fi manikins that teach pediatric care, obstetrics care, intensive care, surgical procedures, IV therapy and more; the Air Fatima, a mock airplane cabin; the Seven on the 6th, a mock hotel; and the Robotics Center, among others. 

Another highlight is the Learning Commons which is a series of learning spaces for study, research, collaboration and discussion, as well as a repository of print and digital resources. Some of its amenities are the amphitheater-styled Lecture Hall, a spacious Reading Area, and Discussion Rooms. It is also home to the Research Development and Innovation Center, the University’s capital for new discoveries. 

“We hope to build up creative and innovative thinking, encourage interactive discussions, and at the same time, develop confidence and professionalism in our students”, added Dr. Enriquez. 

Several distinguished guests graced the event, including Senator Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian; Valenzuela City officials, Mayor Rexlon “Rex” Gatchalian, Vice Mayor Lorena “Lorie” Natividad-Borja, District 1 Congressman Weslie “Wes” Gatchalian; Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Commissioner Aldrin Darilag, and CHED NCR Regional Director IV, Dr. Virginia Akiate. Senator Gatchalian applauded the facility’s ability to provide “hands-on experience”, counting it as “one of the most advanced facilities in the entire country”. 

He likewise acknowledged how the City of Valenzuela and OLFU are historically intertwined since the school’s founding in 1967. “As Fatima progresses, develops, and expands, so does Valenzuela”, he said. 

About OLFU: Starting as a 25-bed hospital in 1967 in the City of Valenzuela, OLFU evolved to become the esteemed, progressive institution that it is now – an ISO 9001:2015 Certified university known as the “Home of the Topnotchers” owing to its standing in licensure examinations, year-on-year. With over 50 years of perpetuating its quality brand of education, it has also established a presence in Quezon City, Pampanga, Antipolo, Nueva Ecija, and recently, Laguna. 

The RISE Tower is located on Fatima Avenue corner MacArthur Highway, Marulas, Valenzuela City, Metro Manila. 

For more information, you may visit its official website, www.fatima.edu.ph, or its official Facebook page, www.facebook.com/fatima.university . 

DAIKIN’s Green Initiatives in Disseminating R32 Energy Efficient Air Conditioners to Address Climate Challenges

Tweet

As Daikin Airconditioning Philippines (DPH) continuously develop its business operations in various fields, it is Daikin’s mission to proactively develop initiatives to respond to environmental issues. Incorporating environmental initiatives throughout Daikin’s management is a priority.

Daikin's  press conference with the theme - Grow Together, Shine Together was held last March 02, 2018 at the Taft Ballroom, Conrad Manila Hotel, Pasay City. (From left to Right) Daikin Philippines Bart Roa - Deputy Division Manager Sales Operations Division , Jed Caburian - Division Manager Sales Operations Division ,Toshiyuki Tanaka - Vice President , Lee Wai Kok - President , Ogie Quitco - Division Manager After Sales Service Division , Gerry Cortez - Division Manager Human Resources and General Affairs.

Environmental Philosophy: 

To be a Company that Leads in Applying Environmentally Friendly Practices 

In all aspects of the business operations of Daikin, including product development, manufacturing, and sales. Daikin formulates initiative that will sustain and improve the environment. Daikin promotes the development of new products and the innovation of technologies that will lead to a more environmentally healthy world.

To mitigate future global climate change, it is important to take a “the sooner, the better” approach. Early implementation is a key to the further reduction of future environmental impact. As soon as the most balanced and feasible solution for an application is found, Daikin will commercialize and disseminate the technology to contribute to the efforts to tackle the issue of global climate change.

Environmental Action Plan 2020

The Daikin Group positions environmental protection as one of its most important management tasks. Based on DPH’s Fusion 20 strategic management plan, under the formulated Environmental Action Plan 2020, Daikin aims to decrease environmental impact throughout the value chain so that Daikin can achieve sustainable business growth and protect the environment. 

Under Daikin’s Environmental Action Plan 2020, Daikin is taking action based on three pillars: 

1-  provide environmental friendly products and services 

2 - minimize environmental impact through manufacturing and other activities 

3 - expand the Green Heart circle worldwide.

Since air conditioners emit a particularly large amount of CO2 during its lifecycle, Daikin is focusing on disseminating the use of energy-efficient air conditioners and air conditioners that use low-global-warming-potential refrigerants. By penetrating the global market, the Daikin group sold about 6.5Million of RAC units in 48 countries, and about 15 million units with R32 refrigerant sold. Estimated 27 million tons of CO2 emission reduced. By converting to R32, Daikin projected the reduction of global warming impact in 2030 by approximately 800 million tons of CO2.

Daikin has identified R32 as a very beneficial refrigerant for single and multi-split type air conditioners. R32 is the next-generation refrigerant that has highest cooling power, zero ozone depletion potential, and lowest global warming potential versus other refrigerants in the market. When looking for a new airconditioning for any application, Daikin believes that consumers should not consumers should look for R32 inverter. 

Daikin believes that the transition to R32 will help to meet both the HFC phase down schedule and the HCFC phase out schedule of the Montreal Protocol.

Daikin is now in the process of further study to identify a suitable refrigerant for the other applications.

VRV X/A Series 

Exceeding Boundaries with Innovative Energy Savings 

The key to innovative energy saving is to increase efficiency during low-load operation. Using data gathered from actual operation, Daikin discovered that air conditioning systems operate at partial – half or less than of 80% of their annual operation period. This inspired Daikin to develop new technologies to enhance energy efficiency when operating only with few units in a multiple airconditioning system. Utilizing these technologies, Daikin’s new VRV X and VRV A series raise the standards for energy efficiency. By uniting advanced software and hardware technologies these greatly increased the energy saving during actual operation. Daikin newest software technology, the VRT Smart Control.

This VRT smart control, optimizes the compressor speed by calculating the required cooling for the entire system and optimal refrigerant temperature based on data sent by each airconditioning unit. With its air volume control, it reduces compressor load and minimizes operation loss. 

VRT control ensures energy savings and comfortable air conditioning to meet the needs of the consumers.

Daikin’s research and development team continuously improve the VRV system. Incorporating a new hardware technology, a new scroll compressor refrigerant leakage is minimized when operating only with few units in a multiple airconditioning system. Operation loss due to refrigerant leakage is reduced by the new mechanism to ensure stable partial load operation.

For easier installation, Automatic Refrigerant Charge Function automates the charging of the proper refrigerant amount and the closing of shut-off valves with just one press of the switch after pre-charging. Simplified installation eliminates excessive and insufficient refrigerant charge amount due to mistakes in calculation, and this led to higher installation quality.

The VRV X and VRV A is the most advanced air conditioning system in the world and is ideal for large and small spaces.

The Daikin press conference  was hosted by  Christian Centenera Ardiente and organized by R & A Events Specialist by Ricci Ang. 

More information on DAIKIN PHILIPPINES visit www.daikin.com.ph. 

Epson launches new 6-axis industrial robots, C8 series robots with advanced force sensor and vision system options as part of its technology features

Tweet

Epson announced the launch of its new 6-axis industrial robot, the C8 series robots. Along with the robots, Epson also provides advanced force sensor and vision system options as part of its technology features.

The new force sensors enable the robots to execute complex manufacturing tasks requiring high precision. With the force sensors, the robots are now able to ‘feel’ forces as limited as 0.1 Newton, and can perform tasks such as assembling delicate components. The sensors can also be used on tasks requiring human sensory perception such as polishing and deburring, freeing people from repetitive manual work.

The C8 series robots carry the highest payloads in Epson’s robot range, handling up to 8kg at high speeds with minimal vibration. Its advanced residual vibration control technology utilizing Epson’s Quartz Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (QMEMS) senses angular velocity and feedback to help significantly reduce vibration during motion.

One of the lightest robots in its class, the C8 series robots delivers high speed and precision in a compact space with maximum flexibility – its compact wrist and slim body design provides a wide range of motion for tight spaces.

The industrial robots can also be equipped with Epson Vision Guide software as an option – advanced machine vision and image processing systems that provide an interface for developing robot vision applications. With this, the robots are able to ‘see’ and identify objects intelligently during the production process, enabling it to pick randomly positioned products for high precision placing and assembly.

“The launch of our C8 series robots along with the force sensors has greatly expanded the applications we are able to offer to customers and is a significant innovative development in the industry. With the strong demand for industrial robots in Southeast Asia, we are excited about the expanded possibilities that come with the force sensors for our customers. As we take the next step forward in the development of our robots, we envision robots that can work alongside and support humans across industries, from manufacturing to service sectors,” said Ng Ngee Khiang, Regional General Manager (SE Asia), Epson Singapore.

Globally, it is estimated that from 2016 to 2018, robot installations will increase, at least by 15% on average per year (CAGR), with about 18% in Asia and Australia. Between 2015 and 2018, it is estimated that about 1.3 million new industrial robots will be installed in factories around the world (Source: International Federation of Robotics).

About Epson

Epson is a global technology leader dedicated to connecting people, things and information with its original efficient, compact and precision technologies. With a lineup that ranges from inkjet printers and digital printing systems to 3LCD projectors, smart glasses, sensing systems and industrial robots, the company is focused on driving innovations and exceeding customer expectations in inkjet, visual communications, wearables and robotics.

Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, the Epson Group comprises more than 67,000 employees in 90 companies around the world, and is proud of its contributions to the communities in which it operates and its ongoing efforts to reduce environmental impacts.

http://global.epson.com/

About Epson Southeast Asia

Since 1982, Epson has developed a strong presence across major markets in Southeast Asia. Led by the regional headquarters, Epson Singapore Pte Ltd., Epson Southeast Asia spans an extensive network of 10 countries, and is responsible for delivering and supporting Epson’s cutting-edge consumer and business digital imaging products to the customers of these markets through its comprehensive infrastructure of over 360 service outlets, 10 Epson solution centres and 8 manufacturing facilities. http://www.epson.com.sg

About Epson Philippines

Epson’s corporate presence in the Philippines commenced in 1998. It grew rapidly into a billion peso company in a span of a few years from its establishment due to its client-oriented approach in its business management style by its dedicated and innovative staff members and officers. Epson Philippines has an extensive network of 77 Authorized Service Centers nationwide with more than 200 dealers and more than 800 shops across the Country. For more details, please visit our website (www.epson.com.ph) or our Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/EpsonPhilippines).

For product inquiries and technical support, please contact Epson Customer Care at: Metro Manila: (02) 441-9030; Toll Free: 1-800-1069-37766 (PLDT), 1-800-3-0037766 (DIGITEL) or visit the Epson Customer Care website: http://customercare.epson.com.ph

Epson’s continued growth in SE Asia a result of focus on business sectors

Tweet

(L-R) Alastaire Bourne, General Manager for Public Relations & Investor Relations - Seiko Epson Corporation; Ian Cameron, General Manager of Global Communications – Seiko Epson Corporation ; Shuji Hamaguchi,General Manager for Professional Printing Division (Large Format Printer and Commercial Equipment Products) - Epson Southeast Asia; Ng HeeKhiang, Regional General Manager for Robotics - Epson Southeast Asia; Siew JinKiat, Regional General Manager for Printer and Visual Instruments Division - Epson Southeast Asia; YunyongMuneemongkoltorn, General Manager - Epson Thailand.

Manila, September 2016 – Epson’s growth within Southeast Asia continues to strengthen as it focuses on growing its corporate and industrial business, and as it emerges as a technology company driven by its core technologies. It has shown consistent revenue growth over recent years as it drives expansion within the business segment, with 9% growth across the region in FY15 in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Philippines, with positive growth over the past five years. In the mid-term, we expect to continue a double-digit growth trend.

Epson will continue to focus on its four key areas of innovation to drive growth – Inkjet, Visual Communications, Wearables and Robotics. Announced earlier this year, the Epson 25 vision aims to create a new connected age of people, things and information with efficient, compact and precision technologies. It provides the technology direction for the company and is the next step in Epson’s growth as a technology company worldwide.

“Epson’s heritage as a watchmaker is core to its expertise in developing high performance precision technologies. Epson will continue to leverage our core technologies to create new innovations that will meet new needs across our focus segments, to bring new value to our customers through precision and smart technologies, and that will reduce impact to the environment,” said Toshimitsu Tanaka, Managing Director, Epson Singapore.

Robotics Innovation

Epson is a global leader in high-precision SCARA robots which are deployed in the manufacturing industry for a wide variety of applications.

With the recent development of high-precision force sensors in Epson robots, the robots can accurately and consistently sense forces as limited as 0.1 Newton. With this, Epson’s robots are able to perform intricate and precise tasks, to address tasks requiring automation. Going forward, Epson envisions developing robots to see, sense, think and work like humans, and working alongside and supporting humans in a variety of situations.

The industrial robotics business at Epson targets to grow by 150% for FY16, driven by strong demand in Southeast Asia.

Inkjet Innovation (Business Printing)

Epson’s growth for its printers is driven by its Micro Piezo and PrecisionCore printhead technology, which has been incorporated across its business and ink tank system printers to ensure durability and reliability. Demand for ink tank printers continues to expand, with growth in SE Asia at 17% in FY15.

With the roll-out of its business inkjets for offices in Southeast Asia, Epson aims to drive growth in the office and enterprise segment with its Replaceable Ink Pack System (RIPS) business printers. The RIPS printer is able to print up to 75,000 pages with each ink pack set, which offer lower page yields compared to laser printers. It also reduces the use of consumables and lower carbon emissions in comparison to laser printers.

Epson is also making efforts to contribute to customers’ work processes by reducing the environmental impact of its products. As part of this initiative, Epson will combine its compact inkjet printers with its PaperLab office papermaking system, to provide a sustainable office printing ecosystem. The world’s first[1] in-office paper recycler to use a dry process[2], PaperLab, which Epson plans to launch in Japan later this year, recycles waste paper in the office to provide a source of office paper, while eliminating the need to store and transport documents to recycling facilities.

Inkjet Innovation (Industrial Printing)

Epson’s growth in its professional printing business continues to expand, with growth of 6% for its large format printers for FY15, and forecasted growth of 13% for FY16. Epson’s PrecisionCore printhead technology continues to drive product development and innovations with its scalability, enabling printing across different media from fabric to signages, and with a variety of inks.

Epson will focus on its digital textile, signage and label printing business to drive growth. In the area of digital textile printing, Epson currently has 85% market share for dye-sublimation digital textile printing[3] within Southeast Asia. Through its collaboration with Robustelli, Epson plans to roll-out its high-end direct-to-garment roll-to-roll digital textile printer within the region, and will continue to develop technologies to meet the needs of customers across the different segments.

Visual Communications Innovation

As the company with the largest market share worldwide at 32%, and at 23% in SE Asia, Epson has continued to dominate the projector market for 3LCD business and home projectors, with interactive projectors driving its growth.

Epson will be launching its new high brightness laser projectors in Southeast Asia this year, along with its 25,000 lumens 3LCD laser projector, which would be the world’s first brightest 3LCD projector to date.

Later this year Epson will be launching the Moverio BT-300, which is the lightest[4] OLED binocular smartglassesand sets the standard for augmented reality smart eyewear. With a focus on developing the smartglasses for commercial and business markets in Southeast Asia, Epson continues to work with business customers and independent software vendors (ISVs) to develop the ecosystem and grow awareness of its smartglasses.

The new BT-300 features Epson’s cutting edge silicon-based OLED (organic light emitting diode) digital display technology, enabling reductions in power usage and weight, and improvements in response time. This cutting edge technology also provides a seamless augmented reality experience in high quality images with greater contrasts, richer colours, and higher brightness.

Epson’s Moverio range was first launched in 2011 with the BT-100, supplemented in 2014 with the BT-200, and again in 2016 with the Moverio Pro BT-2000.

About Epson

Epson is a global technology leader dedicated to connecting people, things and information with its original efficient, compact and precision technologies. With a lineup that ranges from inkjet printers and digital printing systems to 3LCD projectors, smart glasses, sensing systems and industrial robots, the company is focused on driving innovations and exceeding customer expectations in inkjet, visual communications, wearables and robotics.

Led by the Japan-based Seiko Epson Corporation, the Epson Group comprises more than 67,000 employees in 90 companies around the world, and is proud of its contributions to the communities in which it operates and its ongoing efforts to reduce environmental impacts.

http://global.epson.com/

About Epson Southeast Asia

Since 1982, Epson has developed a strong presence across major markets in Southeast Asia. Led by the regional headquarters, Epson Singapore Pte Ltd., Epson Southeast Asia spans an extensive network of 10 countries, and is responsible for delivering and supporting Epson’s cutting-edge consumer and business digital imaging products to the customers of these markets through its comprehensive infrastructure of over 360 service outlets, 10 Epson solution centres and 8 manufacturing facilities.http://www.epson.com.sg

About Epson Philippines

Epson’s corporate presence in the Philippines commenced in 1998. It grew rapidly into a billion peso company in a span of a few years from its establishment due to its client-oriented approach in its business management style by its dedicated and innovative staff members and officers. Epson Philippines has an extensive network of 77 Authorized Service Centers nationwide with more than 200 dealers and more than 800 shops across the Country. For more details, please visit our website (www.epson.com.ph) or our Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/EpsonPhilippines).

For product inquiries and technical support, please contact Epson Customer Care at: Metro Manila: (02) 441-9030; Toll Free: 1-800-1069-37766 (PLDT), 1-800-3-0037766 (DIGITEL) or visit the Epson Customer Care website: http://customercare.epson.com.ph

Introducing an innovative all-in-one solution GROHE Rainshower® SmartControl – 3D Showering

Tweet

DRÜCKEN, DREHEN, DUSCHEN 

PUSH, TURN, SHOWER 

GROHE Rainshower^® SmartControl offers 3D showering: Drücken, Drehen, Duschen – the German expressions for push, turn, shower. The innovative push button technology means that personalising the shower experience has never been easier. This all-in-one solution does not only impress with its innovative technology. Its organic design makes also a stylish statement in the bathroom and sets the tone for a relaxed shower experience.

Intuitive and comfortable operation

GROHE Rainshower^® SmartControl uses a very straightforward and easily understood triple button design which allows to control and memorize all desired shower settings. A combined push-and-turn button starts the flow of water and controls its flow volume. Its knurled surface means that the button can easily be turned even with wet fingers. To stop the flow of water, the user simply pushes the button again; the chosen flow rate setting remains memorized for the next time. 

The spray jet type can also be directly selected by pressing the push button, meaning adjusting the jet disc is no longer necessary. Blending several spray patterns – for example the gentle GROHE PureRain spray and the stimulating TrioMassage setting – is easy as well. The TrioMassage spray combines the action of two massaging spray nozzles with the dynamic GROHE Bokoma spray. Switching between the head and hand shower is just as simple by pushing the respective button. All controls are marked with self-explanatory symbols for intuitive operation, making this innovative shower system a joy to use.

The new flexibility in the shower sector

To create the ultimate shower experience, the system combines a GROHE Rainshower^® 360 DUO head shower with a GROHE Power&Soul^® hand shower. Measuring 360 by 220 millimetres, the lozenge-shaped head shower is a perfect match for the organically flowing lines of the control unit. A metal shower face completes the sophisticated look.

GROHE Rainshower^® SmartControl will shortly also be available as a MONO variant. While basically using the same water control technology as the DUO version, this model will feature only two buttons, given that the head shower will exclusively deliver the gentle GROHE PureRain spray pattern.

Proven GROHE technologies for safe showering

The GROHE Rainshower^® SmartControl shower system is equipped with GROHE TurboStat^® technology. A metal thermostat handle allows to set and adjust the water temperature. The preferred temperature is reached within fractions of a second and will be kept constant even in case of fluctuating water pressure in the pipes. A SafeStop button prevents users from inadvertently raising the water temperature to more than 38 degrees. In addition, the proven CoolTouch^® technology removes the risk of scalding by preventing the exposed metal surfaces from heating up. 

For added convenience under the shower, the top of the control unit serves as a shelf for shampoos, shower gel and other body care products which can be deposited on the XL EasyReach shower tray. Made of safety glass, the tray can be detached for easy and thorough cleaning – another fine example of user-friendly functionality packaged in an intriguingly futuristic look. 

GROHE Rainshower^® SmartControl – 3D showering.