Contractors join hands with Philippine government to build emergency quarantine facilities to fight COVID-19

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Racing against time, the Philippine government and some of the biggest construction companies that are also members of the Philippine Constructors Association (PCA) pulled out all the stops to convert big sports coliseums and convention centers into emergency quarantine facilities (EQF) for the treatment and monitoring of COVID-19

cases.

The initial facilities that have been converted into EQFs and targeted to be all fully operational by the week of April 12 are the Rizal Memorial Coliseum, the Philippine International Convention Center and the World Trade Center.

Mobile medical facilities turned over to one of the hospitals in the city.

The converted quarantine facilities where 24/7 medical care will be given are designed to make patients comfortable while ensuring the.protection of the medical staff and other front liners according to standards set by the Department of Health (DOH). Aside from air-conditioned cubicles, free access to internet connection and

electrical outlets, the facilities will also have food and water stations as well as sufficient toilets and showers.

Fast-tracking the work at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum with a 112-bed capacity are Prime Metro BMD and the Bloomberry Cultural Foundation Inc. under the Razon Group of Companies led by International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) chairman and president Enrique Razon Jr. As the country targets to start mass testing this week, the facility is ready to accept COVID-19 patients who are asymptomatic and those displaying mild symptoms.

Work at the Philippine International Convention Center Forum Halls with a 294-bed capacity is spearheaded by the EEI Corporation of the Yuchengco Group of Companies in collaboration with Vista Land under the Villar Group of Companies. Construction work at the World Trade Center (WTC) is led by the Makati Development Corporation and other companies under the Ayala Group. This facility will have 502 beds.

One of the emergency medical facilities or smarthouse being put up by member companies of the PCA.

Property company Ayala Land Inc. is also converting part of the Philippine Red Cross headquarters in Mandaluyong City into a testing facility that can process almost 3,000 COVID-19 tests per day with results that can be released in as fast as two hours.

PCA also pooled resources from the association, its regular and  associate members as well as affiliate organizations to assist EEI Corporation in fast-tracking the installation and deployment of 60 emergency medical facilities or “smarthouses” that will be utilized by eight hospitals in San Juan, Mandaluyong, Manila, Quezon City, Antipolo, Santa Rosa in Laguna province and Batac in Ilocos Norte.

According to the PCA’s executive director Barry Paulino, their member-companies are one with the Philippine government in the fight against the pandemic. “As a nation builder, PCA is committed to working with the government in its COVID-19 response. Bayanihan (community spirit of cooperation) is a Filipino concept that we truly own and it now leads all of us to do our best in this great fight,” Paulino said.

Guiding the efforts for the conversion of the establishments into “instant hospitals” is the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) under Secretary Mark Villar, with other private companies collaborating in the project such as Filinvest and Capital Corporation of the Philippines, Aboitiz Corp., Lina Group of Companies, PLDT and Smart, DM Consunji, Concepcion Industrial Corp. Boysen Philippines also partnered with the government to make the facilities color coded for enhanced protection of frontline workers. DM Consunji and Boysen Philippines are member of PCA.

Another PCA member, DATEM Construction, also put up the EQFs at the National Kidney Institute and the Philippine Army General Hospital. It is now working on a similar facility at the Ospital ng Makati. Will Decena and Associates also installed the EQF at the Mandaluyong Medical Center and the Lung Center of the Philippines.

President Duterte had signed into law Republic ACT 11469 granting him expanded but limited budgetary powers to step up the country’s fight against COVID-19. Under the law also known as the “Bayanihan to Heal as One Act,” the government can realign certain state funds to deliver Php200 billion (US$3.9 billion) in emergency subsidies to 18 million low-income households that have lost their sources of income amid the pandemic – the largest financial aid package ever granted to Filipino

households – as well as special risk allowances and cash aid for public and private health workers in the frontlines, and the purchase of personal protective equipment and other measures.

The Philippine president has also extended the enhanced community quarantine for the entire island of Luzon to April 30 with strict social distancing protocols in place to fight the spread of the coronavirus disease with over 1.4 million cases and more than 82,000 deaths globally.

According to Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III, the government’s “Build, Build, Build” infrastructure program will fuel the country’s economic “bounce back.” PCA is now working on a plan to allow the industry to meet the challenge that may come whether the quarantine is lifted or modified.

Despite the pandemic, the Philippine government continues to aggressively pursue sustainable development measures, build major infrastructures and forge economic ties with diverse markets through solid economic fundamentals and a strong, resolute leadership consistent with the nation’s potential as the fastest growing economy in Asia.

Let''s #LoveThrowback the second time around and fall in love the OPM way this Valentine’s

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Many people around the world celebrate Valentine's Day by sharing sweet moments with the people they love.

Lovers will swoon this Valentine’s Day with serenades from some of the country’s top OPM singers.

At the PICC Plenary Hall this February 14, 8:30PM, a concert titled #LoveThrowback2 will bring together Ariel Rivera, Joey Generoso, Jinky Vidal, Nina, Christian Bautista, and Hajji Alejandro to send hearts aflutter with timeless OPM love songs.

#LoveThrowback’s second run celebrates the season once again with OPM songs that stir the heart. Nothing invokes passion and heartache more than Filipino ballads that tell of love, loss, acceptance, and taking another chance.

Leading the star-studded lineup is the ‘90s’ Kilabot ng Kolehiyala Ariel Rivera whose hit singles “Sana Kahit Minsan,” “Ayoko Na Sana,” and “Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin” are sure to resonate with sweethearts and hopeless romantics alike this year.

Band Royalties Joey G. and Jinky Vidal will also tug on heartstrings with bittersweet melodies.

Former frontman Joey G. is set to perform Side A classics including “So Many Questions,” “Tell Me,” and “Forevermore.” As for Jinky, the crowd is in for a treat with “If I Believe” as well as “One Hello” and “So Slow” from her days with Freestyle.

Joining #LoveThrowback for a second time, Diamond Soul Siren Nina will deliver another stunning performance with her rendition of “Through the Fire,” “I Love You Goodbye,” and “Love Moves in Mysterious Ways.”

Reality show Star in a Million finalist Christian Bautista has gone a long way and has captivated many hearts both here and abroad. The Asian Pop Superstar’s chart-toppers “Colour Everywhere,” “The Way You Look at Me,” and his rendition of “Hands to Heaven” will grace audiences this year with sweet musical caresses.

Finally to cap off the night, the original Kilabot ng Kolehiyala Hajji Alejandro will take OPM back to its founding years with “May Minamahal,” “Nakapagtataka,” and “Panakip Butas.”

Celebrate the passion of OPM at #LoveThrowback2. 

For tickets, call TicketWorld at 891.9999, TicketNet at 911.5555, or SM Tickets at 470.2222. For more details, find us on Facebook and Instagram @RoyaleChimesConcerts and Twitter @RoyaleChimes.

The future of travel media : TBEX Asia-Pacific 2016 set on October 13-16

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To visit and go someplace you’ve never been before.... Travel and Adventure is worthwhile. 

The Philippines is all set for the Asia-Pacific leg of the world’s largest conference of travel bloggers, writers, content media creators and tourism industry professionals - the Travel Blog Exchange (TBEX), on October 13-16, 2016 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC). 

Presented by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), in coordination with NMX Events, TBEX is expected to bring in hundreds of delegates from North America, Europe and Asia to the Philippines for the first time and will serve as the best venue for bloggers to acquire knowledge, as well as expand their networks and linkages. It will also create a good opportunity for the participants to experience the best of the Philippines through exciting tours.

Highlighting this event will be a series of talks presented by some of the world’s renowned speakers including New York Times #1 international bestselling author and veteran travel journalist Patricia Schultz, host of the award-winning podcast Slice of Sci-Fi Evo Terra, and Filipino travel blogger and founder of OurAwesomePlanet.com Anton Diaz. 

Talks will cover various travel-blogging topics such as the proper use of social networking sites, video blogging, content management, marketing techniques to building brands and challenges and opportunities in blogging. The conference will also allow the participants to interact with each other and have in-depth discussion on travel blogging opportunities. 

The group will also be treated with exciting tours to the country’s premier destinations including iconic landmarks, world heritage sites, scenic views, natural wonders, entertainment venues, lifestyle spaces, and top attractions. The list will include a visit to the historical walled city of Intramuros, the Eighth Wonder of the World Banaue Rice Terraces, the world’s Best Island Palawan, UNESCO World Heritage site Ilocos and the world’s most perfect cone-shaped Mayon Volcano.

By hosting this four-day event, the Philippines is once again set to take the spotlight for being a premier travel destination among the world’s most successful travel bloggers and the industry’s most creative and influential minds. 

To register and know more about the upcoming TBEX 2016, visit http://tbexcon.com/2016-asia/.

5th Jollibee Family Values Awards (JFVA) Winning Families

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Here are the 11 winning families from Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao, and the United States honored for their noteworthy advocacies that made a significant impact in the lives of their fellowmen. The 5th Jollibee Family Values Awards (JFVA) Gabi ng Parangal para sa Pamilyang Pilipino held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) last September 24.

DOMULOT Family

DOMULOT Family

Botolan, Zambales

· Carlito, 57 – Father 

· Iril, 56 – Mother 

· Christopher, 34 – Son 

· Carol, 27 – Daughter 

· Noel, 25 – Son 

· Karen, 24 – Daughter 

· Catherine, 23 – Daughter 

· Carmen, 22 – Daughter 

· Cora, 21 – Daughter 

· Carlito Jr., 15 – Son 

Uniting the Aetas and protecting their rights are the main advocacies of the Domulot family. 

The Domulots are among the active members of Lubos ng Alyansa ng mga Katutubong Ayta sa Sambales (LAKAS), which was established in 1986 after the Mt. Pinatubo eruption. As chieftain of their tribe, Carlito underwent literary seminars led by the missionaries that founded the organization, and he made sure to share what he has learned with his community. Carlito also served as the LAKAS chairperson from 1999 to early 2015, and now acts as an adviser of the group. 

Carlito is also among those who led the unity of the four Aeta tribes in Zambales. Through his efforts, and with the help of various NGOs and concerned groups, the Aetas were able to acquire the Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) in March 2010, protecting the ancestral domain of more than 50,000 Aeta families, to whom the land rightfully belongs. 

The family also served as their community’s teachers, conducing literacy programs and literacy and livelihood trainings for their fellow Aetas. Through the years, they were able to make a difference in the lives of about 5,000 families. They were also instrumental in the construction of a school in their community, seeking the help of various organizations to provide school supplies to underprivileged students. 

The Domulot siblings are also doing their share in serving their community, assisting in seminars and working hard to help fund the family’s projects. The eldest, Christopher, is in Japan studying organic farming, aiming to help his kababayans improve their livelihood, while Noel, a Political Science student, has set his sights on becoming a lawyer for Aetas. Daughters Carol and Karen are also active as teachers of the school’s daycare and high school students, respectively. 

MAMBUAY Family

MAMBUAY Family 

Opol, Misamis Oriental

· Nathaniel, 55 – Father 

· Amina, 48 – Mother 

· Lara Angelie, 25 – Daughter 

· Sarah Adrianne, 24 – Daughter 

· Farrah Asleigh, 20 – Daughter 

The Mambuay family believes that differences in culture and religion are not obstacles to a peaceful and nurturing community. 

The family started as volunteers of a peace program in their hometown of Misamis Oriental, conducting community training to promote mutual respect and understanding among Muslims and Christians in different barangays and municipalities. Using their own funds and through the help of a friend in Germany, the Mambuays expanded their advocacy and established Kalilintad Pilipinas, Inc. in 2013. The organization conducts trainings, workshops and seminars on peace and non-violent communication to different groups in Mindanao. In addition, the group extends educational support to less fortunate children, and holds values formation seminars for those in jail. 

When their province was hit by Typhoon Sendong in 2011, the family also used their personal resources and volunteered their time to provide relief goods and basic medical assistance. They also sought the help of the Society of the Divine Word missionaries and volunteers from the University of San Carlos to deliver psychological and medical support to the victims. 

PEñA Family

PEñA Family

Dasmariñas City, Cavite 

· Alfredo, 52 – Father

· Ma. Janette, 52 – Mother 

· Anthea Carmeli, 21 – Daughter 

· Angelico Amir, 15 – Son 

· Jan Amille, 9 – Son 

The Peña family is united in their mission to raise awareness about autism, heading capacity-building programs that empower not only persons with disabilities (PWDs), but also their families. 

Parents Alfredo and Janette were instrumental in the establishment of the Bacoor chapter of the Autism Society Philippines (ASP) in 2006. Through their efforts, they have helped establish 13 ASP chapters in their home province of Cavite, benefitting more than 10,000 PWDs and their loved ones. 

Using their own resources, the family reaches out to other families who, like them, have loved ones with autism. They partnered with various organizations to put up Special Education (SPED) centers in public schools in the city and nearby areas, providing education to PWDs at no cost. 

Janette also facilitates regular support group meetings, and heads free seminars for parents, teachers, daycare workers, students and cause-oriented groups based in their native Cavite, as well as in Metro Manila and nearby provinces. 

The Peña siblings are also active in the family’s projects. Anthea Carmeli and Jan Emille act as facilitators of their annual Siblings Workshops, where young attendees learn the importance of having a nurturing relationship with their loved ones with special needs. Anthea also hopes to continue what her family has started and is now on her fifth year as an Occupational Therapy student at De La Salle Health Sciences Institute, where she is a scholar. Amir was diagnosed with autism at a young age, but that did not stop him from also helping others and volunteering at a summer camp for PDWs. 

ROJAS Family

ROJAS Family

Quezon City 

· Emerito, 57 – Father 

· Voleta, 56 – Mother 

· Elaine Rose, 30 – Daughter 

· Erika Anne, 29 – Daughter 

· Einstein, 24 – Son 

· Edward, 21 – Son 

A throat cancer survivor, Emer lost his voice and can only communicate with the use of an electronic larynx, a handheld electronic device that replaced the functions of his vocal cords. He and his family have made it their mission to give tobacco victims and persons with disabilities (PWDs) a voice, empowering them through education and support. 

In 2007, Emer established the New Vois Association of the Philippines (NVAP), addressing PWD issues and cancer awareness. It conducts monthly conferences that raises awareness on the health hazards of tobacco, and also provided free electronic larynx units and esophageal speech training to those afflicted with throat diseases. 

Through the years, the NVAP grew into a tobacco control advocacy group. As leaders of the NVAP, Emer and his wife Volet spearheaded the passage of two major health laws, the sin tax law and the graphic health warning law, which aim to raise awareness on the health risks brought about by tobacco. Because of his efforts, Emer was named as one of the 87 Global Cancer Ambassador by the American Cancer Society. 

The Rojas family also partnered with the local government and NGOs on livelihood initiatives that help PWDs gain economic independence. To date, they have provided high-speed sewing machines to five PWD organizations in different barangays in Quezon City. They also conduct capacity building seminars to underprivileged communities in various areas, including Bohol, Bacolod and Cebu. 

TIOSAN Family

TIOSAN Family

Cainta, Rizal

· Dante, 61 – Father 

· Elna, 56 – Mother 

· Paul, 32 – Son 

· Dianne, 31 – Daughter 

Dante knows the challenges of being visually impaired as he lost his sight during his final semester in college. While his condition hindered his dreams of becoming a CPA lawyer from coming true, he realized that he can still bring his other goals to life and help blind people like him achieve theirs. 

He became a trainer for blind masseurs under a government scheme, but realized that those he trained ended up unemployed as they did not have any means to promote their services. This inspired him to put up VIBES, which stands for “Visually Impaired Brotherhood for Excellent Services,” in 1992. Dante established this enterprise offering massage services with only P8,000 as capital, which their choral group, led by his wife, raised from singing carols during the Christmas season. 

Through VIBES, the Tiosan family provided skills and social development training to the visually impaired at no cost, equipping them with the abilities they need to earn livelihood. The beneficiaries, especially those who are homeless, are also given free food and lodging. To date, VIBES employs about 650 visually impaired persons in various branches across the country, allowing them to provide for their families despite their condition. 

VIBES also has a cooperative that allows members and even their relatives to loan money for their needs at a very low interest. The cooperative’s proceeds are allocated for the family’s outreach programs, which include provision of school supplies to the children of visually impaired members and feeding projects in squatters’ areas. 

Elna supports her husband’s program by managing the financial records of some VIBES branches. Their son Paul also acts as the manager of the business, using his IT expertise in running the enterprise, while the daughter, Dianne, is the one in-charge of marketing materials. 

Global Pinoy Family of the Year 

GANGE Family

GANGE Family 

San Jose, California

· George, 63 – Father 

· Melinda, 62 – Mother 

· Michael, 40 – Son 

· George, Jr., 37 – Son 

Rondalla music has played a big part in George’s life since he was a kid. He finished school as a scholar because of it, and it taught him values and life skills that became a great help in his life as he grew up. 

George and his family have made it their advocacy to uplift the lives of the less fortunate through rondalla music, establishing the Pagyamanin Likas Musika (PLM in 2010). With the help of family and friends, the organization was able to purchase new instruments that were donated to a chosen community or school, helping underprivileged children improve their self-esteem, character and livelihood through music. 

Through the years, PLM has benefitted about 70 schools and marginalized communities in Cavite, Paranaque, Las Pinas, Taguig, Muntinlupa and even as far as Davao Del Norte. 

The Gange family also uses music as a means to help victims of various calamities, serenading and entertaining residents of a nursing facility in California to raise funds. Through their organization, they also worked with rondalla groups in the US and the Philippines to produce a music CD, aptly titled Pamanang Pinoy, to raise funds for its beneficiaries. 

Because of the family’s efforts, they were able to provide assistance to survivors of the earthquake in Nepal and in Bohol, Typhoons Yolanda and Ondoy, as well as those affected the Zamboanga siege. 

5th JOLLIBEE FAMILY VALUES AWARDS 

Special Citations 

Special Citation for Environment 

BASA Famil

BASA Family

Roxas City, Capiz 

· Rommel, 48 – Father

· Analy, 44 – Mother 

· Cyprian Jade, 19 – Son 

· Zyque Faith, 17 – Daughter 

The members of the Basa family are all active in different advocacies that educate and uplift the lives of their community. Among these is the “Sagip Kalikasan, Sagip Buhay” project, which aims to provide alternative life vests using recycled plastic bottles. They visit various barangays to teach residents about disaster preparedness and to distribute these life vests. 

At a young age, the Basa siblings have exemplified leadership and compassion for their fellowmen. In 2011, eldest son Cyprian Jade pioneered the “Farmers Project,” educating and training more than 500 farmers about making alternative organic pesticides. This program received various awards, including a recognition from the Department of Agriculture in their hometown. Cup was also named as one of the Ten Outstanding Boy Scouts of the Philippines for his community services and being a good role model to his fellow youth. 

Younger daughter Zyque Faith initiated the program “Adlaw sa Balay Dalayunan,” mobilizing her schoolmates to volunteer in a home for PWDs in their native Roxas City. As the president of their school’s Values Education department, she also leads gift-giving efforts to the PWDs living there. 

Special Citation for Education 

CAPILOS Family

CAPILOS Family

Quezon City 

· Jelson, 32 – Father 

· Hyacinth, 34 – Mother 

· Anastacia, 6 – Daughter 

· Alessandra, 5 – Daughter 

· Amarissa, 1 month – Daughter 

Driven by their passion for education, husband and wife Jelson and Hyacinth turned their business that does corporate trainings and seminars, into an advocacy program that benefitted public school teachers and their students. 

In 2011, the couple established EducAid, which offers monthly seminars, trainings, and workshops to public school teachers for free. From presentation skills and time management, to financial literacy and positive parenting, the program empowers teachers to provide higher quality education to their students. 

From helping 23 teachers on their first year, the Capilos couple was able to reach out to more than 5,000 teachers and students nationwide, through the help of clients and sponsors. Jelson also partnered with a local channel for a nationwide training program, joining its outreach programs in far-flung provinces to facilitate seminars for teachers. 

Special Citation for Minority Groups 

CATANGHAL Family

CATANGHAL Family

Pasig City 

· Ernie, 43 – Father 

· Rosalie, 44 – Mother 

· Lorniel Cid, 21 – Son 

· Francis Erl, 15 – Son 

· Eanda Franciel, 14 – Daughter 

The Catanghal family is united in caring for the Mangyan tribe in Mindoro. Since 1999, they had been conducting regular feeding programs and seminars on proper hygiene practices for the indigenous people. With the help of partner organizations, they also conduct medical missions in the community, soliciting medicine and medical supplies from pharmaceutical companies and other likeminded groups, and distributing them to those in need. 

In 2007, the Catanghal family began their education program for Mangyan kids, providing them with scholarship grants. They also personally visit the parents who are wary of sending their children to formal school, to convince them to let their kids go to school. They also put up a mission center, a shelter where scholars can reside as they complete their education. 

Special Citation for PWDs 

MENDOZA Family

MENDOZA Family

Puerto Princesa, Palawan 

· Matthew, 43 – Father 

· Angeli Natasha, 43 – Mother 

· Bea Angela, 15 – Daughter 

· Kyla Natasha, 12 – Daughter 

· Luke Matthew, 9 – Son 

For the Mendoza family, love and compassion can empower one to make a difference in the lives of others. Matthew and Angeli, whose eldest daughter Bea was diagnosed with Down syndrome, know how hard it is to find doctors and medical professionals with an expertise in caring for children with special needs. They also realized that unlike them, other parents do not have the means to provide therapy and even basic check-ups for their own kids. 

In 2003, the Mendoza couple sought the help of various therapists and specialists for a free clinic, bringing medical experts to their hometown of Puerto Princesa. Since then, the medical mission has grown and is now held twice a year, benefitting 100 kids per session. 

The family also undertakes projects that raise awareness on children with special needs, conducting seminars for parents and teachers on the topics of acceptance and inclusion, education and therapy. To further empower PWDs and their families, the Mendoza family also spearheads the Special Olympics in Palawan. 

Special Citation for Children 

RAMIREZ Family

RAMIREZ Family

Quezon City 

· Edsel, 42 – Father 

· Jennifer Rose, 42 – Mother 

· Jessica Anne Nicole, 21 – Daughter 

· Justine Gabrielle, 13 – Daughter 

The Ramirez family has a special spot in their hearts for underprivileged kids. In 2012, they launched the Philippine Toy Library (PTL), which aimed to give back to children the experience and joy of play.

The PTL transforms idle spaces in barangays, schools, parishes, and partner organizations into toy libraries, serving as fun and educational playrooms. Here, kids are free to read and play, activities that little ones in need may not have access to, but are critical to a child’s mental, emotional, social, and physical development.

Apart from PTL, the Ramirez family has been active in helping a community of Dumagats in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija, conducing medical missions, sustainable livelihood trainings, and gift-giving projects for the underprivileged Filipinos there.

Photos: Arts & Travel Magazine 

Jollibee honored exemplary Filipino families in 5th Jollibee Family Values Awards (JFVA)

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Jollibee hails new batch of exemplary Filipino families during the 5th Jollibee Family Values Awards (JFVA) Gabi ng Parangal para sa Pamilyang Pilipino held last September 24 at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).

Jollibee once again hailed the noble stories of compassion and generosity of exemplary Filipino families. On its milestone year, the JFVA honored 11 Filipino families from Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao, and the United States for their noteworthy advocacies that made a significant impact in the lives of their fellowmen.

After careful deliberation, diverse and refreshing stories of goodwill were selected to herald the JFVA on its milestone year. 

Here's the 5th JFVA list of winners:

Domulot family of Zambales

Tiosan family of Rizal

Mambuay family of Misamis Oriental

Rojas family of Quezon City

Pena family of Cavite

Gange family of San Jose, California

Special citations:

Capilos family of Quezon City

Basa family of Capiz

Ramirez family of Quezon City

Mendoza family of Palawan

Catanghal family of Pasig 

Domulot family of Zambales

The 5th JFVA winners include the Domulot family of Zambales, whose work focuses on uplifting the lives and solidifying the Aeta tribes; Tiosan family of Rizal, dedicated to the employment and self-sufficiency of the blind; Mambuay family of Misamis Oriental, seeking peaceful ways to inculcate unity between the Christian and Muslim faiths; Rojas family of Quezon City, for giving a new voice to cancer survivors; and Pena family of Cavite, empowering people with Autism. The Gange family of San Jose, California was awarded the Jollibee-Coca-Cola Global Pinoy Family of the Year for advocating music literacy among the Filipino youth.

Apart from the six exemplary Filipino families, the Jollibee Family Values Awards also bestowed special citations to families whose advocacies benefit specific stakeholders. Special Citation for Education (co-presented by National Bookstore) was awarded to the Capilos family of Quezon City for holding free trainings for public school teachers and students; Special Citation for Environment (co-presented by Landbank) was awarded to the Basa family of Capiz for their work on using recycled materials for disaster preparedness; Special Citation for Children (co-presented by Children’s Hour and San Miguel-Purefoods) was awarded to the Ramirez family of Quezon City for creating free toy libraries nationwide; Special Citation for PWDs (co-presented by the National Council on Disability Affairs) was awarded to the Mendoza family of Palawan for holding free clinics and Special Olympics for PWDs; and Special Citation for Minority Groups (co-presented by Kalipunan ng mga Katutubong Mamamayan ng Pilipinas - KATRIBU) was awarded to the Catanghal family of Pasig for their advocacy of providing wholistic development for the Mangyan tribes. 

These abundant stories of goodwill and generosity resonates JFVA’s core messages that everyone has what it takes to make a difference in the lives of others, and that the right values begin and are nurtured at home.

“These families that exemplify the values that we honor up to this day form a strong foundation for the country that help build a better nation. We owe it to them that the campaign has reached its milestone year, as we continue to receive inspiring stories of compassion and generosity here and around the globe that are definitely worth recognizing and can serve as a shining example for others,” said Jollibee Philippines president Joseph Tanbuntiong.

Distinguished personalities known in their respective fields made up this year’s esteemed JFVA board of judges including Sen. Bam Aquino as jury chairman, Sen. Grace Poe-Llamanzares, Camarines Sur 3rd District Representative Cong. Leni Robredo, professor and economist Winnie Monsod, MOWELFUND trustee and president Boots Anson-Rodrigo, columnist and child advocate Audrey Tan-Zubiri, Jollibee ambassador and Ulirang Ina awardee Carmina Villaroel-Legaspi, ANC news anchor Edric Mendoza, parenting and relationship consultant Maribel Sison-Dionisio, Coca-Cola Export Corporation Director for Public Affairs and Communications Atty. Adel Tamano, and ABS-CBN consultant for Public Service Integration and Chaplaincy Fr. Carmelo “Tito” Caluag, S.J. They were also joined by Jollibee Global Brand Chief Marketing Officer Francis Flores, Vice President for Marketing Harvey Ong, Vice President for Human Resources Ruth Angeles, and Jollibee Group Foundation Vice President Belen Rillo.

During the awards night, the top 6 exemplary families received a cash prize of P300,000, a trophy designed by renowned sculptor Michael Cacnio, and P10,000 worth of Jollibee gift certificates. While special citation recipients each received P50,000 cash, a plaque, and P5,000 worth of Jollibee gift certificates.

The Gabi ng Parangal para sa Pamilyang Pilipino was hosted by Maricel and Anthony Pangilinan, and featured performances from Jollibee ambassadors Sarah Geronimo, who sang the official 5th JFVA theme, the Voice Kids Lyca, Darlene and JK, and Asia’s songbird and multi-awarded artist Regine Velasquez. 

The 5th Jollibee Family Values Awards is made possible with the support of major sponsors Coca-Cola, official airline partner Cebu Pacific, official hotel partners Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn and media partner The Philippine Star. 

Other sponsors are Enchanted Kingdom, BusinessWorld, SM Cyberzone, Inewvation, LG, Hunt’s Tomato Sauce, Great Taste, Magic Crackers and Cream-O. Citation partners include National Bookstore, Landbank, San Miguel-Purefoods, Children’s Hour, National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA) and Kalipunan ng mga Katutubong Mamamayan ng Pilipinas - KATRIBU.

Photos: Arts & Travel Magazine

On secrets to inner strength and happiness by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

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Here's an inspiring talk by world renowned humanitarian Sri Sri Ravi Shankar on secrets to inner strength and happiness.

He travels to nearly 40 countries a year and has started programs and organizations that have touched the lives of over 300 million people in over 150 countries and on the 8th of April 2015, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, one of the world’s icons for human values and peace, will be visiting the Philippines, to inspire the public for one night only with his globally recognized wisdom.

Art of Living BeST program for survivors of Yolanda

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar believes that a peaceful society starts with the peaceful mind of every individual. He started organizations such as “The Art of Living Foundation” to share best practice techniques and ancient Wisdom to help people from all over the world manage their mind and negative emotions - thereby helping them lead healthier and happier lives. 

The Art of Living's programs include breathing techniques, Yoga, Meditation and simple yet profound life guiding principles. The core technique known as the Sudarshan Kriya, is a powerful and revitalizing breathing technique scientifically proven to be beneficial for the mind and body. Art of Living’s global website, http://www.artofliving.org, states that “Sudarshan Kriya incorporates specific natural rhythms of the breath which harmonize the body, mind and emotions,” It has been proven to be very effective in managing stress, fatigue and negative emotions such as anger, frustration and depression.

Founded in 1981, Art of Living Foundation – is now one of the largest international volunteer-based, non-profit, educational, charitable and humanitarian organizations having a special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

In the Philippines, the Art of Living has conducted numerous courses and workshops. In 2009, Bienvenido “Donnie” Tantoco, President of Rustan’s Supercenters Inc., was quoted saying, “Once you know proper breathing, it is effortless to be in the present moment. I’m calmer, my mind is more lucid. Basically, I don’t feel so stressed and I have been sleeping better now than I have in years.” 

The Art of Living programs benefit all sectors of society – people from all backgrounds and all walks of life have enjoyed the various courses and techniques offered by the foundation. Apart from addressing the stress and negative emotions of the general public, Art of Living also includes poverty alleviation, women empowerment, environmental sustainability and conflict resolution in their mission. 

In the Philippines, the service arm of the Art of Living deploys volunteers and teachers to conduct workshops free of charge to various sectors of society. One such workshop, BeST (Breath & Sound Therapy) is for marginalized, depressed or traumatized people and communities including victims of calamities in the wake of Typhoon Yolanda and Ondoy. The BeST program is effective regardless of the number of participants, making it recognized by other NGO’s as an effective psychosocial remedy to address deep trauma in large communities where one-on-one sessions are impractical and costly. 

BeST has been conducted throughout the Philippines from Metro Manila, through Visayas and Mindanao working occasionally with other NGO’s such as the Red Cross and Save the Children. The Service arm has also conducted regular workshops for prisoner rehabilitation in Bilibid Prison, Muntinlupa City as well as Makati City Jail – over 1000 inmates have been through the program till date. 

In light of the recent violence and tragedies that have befallen the nation, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s visit complements the national and global call for peace and harmony. “Difficult and unpleasant times come in everyone’s life,” he says, “What is important is to keep the faith intact. On a completely dark night, even a flickering lamp can help you find the way.” 

Sri Sri’s visit to Manila marks the end of his Asian Tour where he is expected to inspire thousands of people across Cambodia, Malaysia, Japan, Thailand and Indonesia. 

In Manila on April 8, the public speaking engagement of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar will be held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City. 

Tickets are available at Php 300 and P100 for Students, seniors, teachers, NGO workers, Gov. Employees. Group rates are also available.

For more information about this event as well as courses offered, contact the Art of Living Foundation at 09178400049 09178484898 or (632) 6222-566/63, info@artofliving.org. To learn more or register online visit www.artofliving.org

Only You: An Evening of Romantic Hits

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Get ready to be enthralled all over again by classic love songs like The Platters’ “Only You”, “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes”, “The Great Pretender”, “Harbor Lights”, “Twilight Time”, “Enchanted” and “My Prayer.” Relive the hits of Matt Monro as the junior pays tribute to the songs popularized by his dad such as “Portrait of My Love,” “Walk Away”, “Softly As I Leave You”, “Love Is A Many Splendored Thing”, “Born Free”, “If I Never Sing Another Song” and “From Russia With Love.”

Only You: An Evening of Romantic Hits”, a Valentine concert featuring Matt Monro, Jr. and The Fabulous Sounds of The Platters with renowned Filipino balladeer and Asian singing sensation Christian Bautista.

Christian Bautista will perform his own hit songs like “Colour Everywhere”, “Hands To Heaven”, the immensely popular song “The Way You Look at Me” that virtually launched Christian’s career in the Southeast Asian region when he started in the music biz years ago plus other hits from his award winning albums.

This will make the show a Valentine musical feast for all ages, proving that love, indeed, is an emotion that knows no space, time or age.

Love songs on a romantic evening at PICC Plenary Hall on February 14, 2015 at 8PM  and Newport Performing Arts Theater at Resorts World Manila on February 16, 2015 at 8pm.

Tickets are available at Ticketworld (891-9999), SM Tickets (470-222) and Ticketnet (911-5555).

50th PMAP Annual Conference: Global Opportunities. Leaping Forward. Defying Limits.

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The global economic landscape is seeing a new dawn, with Asia as its center and the Philippines, its sweet spot. The turnaround could not have come at a more opportune time.

A young Filipino workforce is raring to go and governance is breaking through a renaissance of accountability and transparency. The message is unequivocal: We are open for business! It’s all systems go.

This year, the People Management Association of the Philippines (PMAP) will hold its Annual Conference that recognizes a challenge: the country is at the center of Global Opportunities. But more than recognizing that reality, we see it as our mandate. There’s no other way but to seize these possibilities. We are now at the brink of living our dreams and imaginings. There are no excuses. This time, we have to make it work!

The horizon has opened up and all eyes are on the Philippines as the world’s new economic tiger. The ball’s on our court and the challenge is to leap forward. We can no longer afford to move at our current pace. Catch-up, leapfrog… that is what we should do. But to realize this, we need to defy limits, break free from our self-imposed restrictions that used to define who we are and what we can do.

Members of 50th PMAP Annual Conference Directorate doing the thumbs up sign to signify
that everything is in full gear at the launch of the country’s biggest HR event.

As we usher in this golden year of the PMAP Annual Conference, the organization take stock of the rich mine of ideas in our sharing and learning community. Fifty years of thought leadership, advocacy and camaraderie. A story that in this milestone year turns into our quest for GOLD.

“We EXPLORE the terrain as we paint the global economic landscape, create strategies, and search for talent. We MINE our collective experience as we extract issues, build consensus, and crystallize our advocacies. We REFINE our practice as we re-examine functional HR competencies. We SMELT the ore of our skills as we deep-dive into focused workshops to forge proficiency, mastery, and leadership. And we SHOWCASE best practices in HR and people management as we celebrate models and successes,” PMAP Vice President and Conference Chair Roberto Policarpio said during the launch.

The 50th PMAP Annual Conference will be happening at the Philippine International Convention Center from September 25-27 with the theme, ”Global Opportunities. Leaping Forward. Defying Limits.

For registration, contact PMAP at tel. no. 726-152 or email pmap@pamp.org.ph. Visit www.pmap.org.ph and like www.facebook.com/PMAP1956 for updates and important announcements.

500 Delegates Expected in Manila at Global Conference

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Manila is poised to welcome almost 500 delegates from 78 countries across the globe as it hosts one of the largest and most significant events in the worldwide movement against corruption.

 

The 5th Global Conference of the Global Organization of Parliamentarians Against Corruption (GOPAC) will be held in the Philippine International Convention Center from January 30 to February 2, 2013. The Philippine Senate and GOPAC’s regional arm, the Southeast Asian Parliamentarians Against Corruption (SEAPAC), are co-hosting the event.

 

To date, a total of 492 members of parliament and non-governmental organizations have registered for the said conference, including members of Philippine Congress.

 

“The fact that GOPAC chose Manila as the venue for the upcoming Global Conference is a strong vote of confidence for the anti-corruption efforts of the country and the current administration,” said Senator Edgardo J. Angara, Chairperson of SEAPAC and of the Manila Steering Committee.

 

“This is an opportunity for us to showcase to the rest of the world that we are intent on cleaning up our government. It will also allow us to learn from each other’s best practices in the fight against corruption.”

           

Delegates will be coming from near and far to attend the much-anticipated event in Manila, 65 of whom are from other SEAPAC member-countries such as Cambodia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia. The rest will be coming from as far as the United States, the Middle East, Latin America, Africa and Europe.

 

“The Philippine government is ready and able to match the commitment of these lawmakers who are travelling thousands of miles just to attend this important gathering. The Manila Conference is the product of the collective effort of several government agencies who share the GOPAC vision of a progressive, corruption-free world.” said Angara.

 

The Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of Tourism, Department of Health, Department of Public Works and Highways, Philippine National Police and the Metro Manila Development Authority are some of the agencies of government involved in GOPAC Manila 2013. President Benigno S. Aquino III will be the Keynote Speaker at the event.