Digido Finance Corp. lends a hand to Rizal’s Cuyambay Elementary School through education donation drive

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The school’s 269 students received tote bags containing tumblers, intermediate paper, crayons, ballpens and notebooks during a turnover programme.

Understanding the immediate need to empower young Filipinos during their early education years, volunteering employees and management of Digido Finance Corp. provided much-needed school supplies to Cuyambay Elementary School in Tanay, Rizal as a result of an in-house donation drive.

The school’s 269 students received tote bags containing tumblers, intermediate paper, crayons, ballpens, notebooks and personalized messages during the company’s “Pack a Bag: Ready, Set, Learn!” turnover programme last October 11, 2024. Light entertainment and meals were also provided during the one-day event.

The school’s hardworking teachers were also given basic supplies such as high-quality bond paper, manila paper, pens and scissors.

Whilst surrounded by stunning mountains and lakes, Cuyambay Elementary School’s upland location prevents it from easily accessing urban centers where school supplies are readily available.

“Opportunities to contribute towards a more equitable education for underserved learners completely align with our company ethos,” said Diane Tinoko, head of human resources and administration of Digido Finance Corp. “This particular initiative is a simple gesture to give back to our teachers going above and beyond to ensure their students have an inclusive space for learning. Our sincerest thanks to Cuyambay Elementary School for allowing us to understand some of their academic needs and lend a hand where we can.”

Dragonpay, a trusted partner of the company, made a monetary donation to support the initiative.

The event is part of the company’s series of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) activities, aimed to enhance the well-being of communities and promote sustainability.

While the Philippines has made significant progress in education in the past years, UNICEF said that participation in early childhood education remains limited in the country. Evidence also suggests that early childhood education in particular has long-term positive impacts on Filipino children’s education, according to the humanitarian aid organization.

Taylor's Play Cafe: The Ideal Spot for Kids' Playtime and Parents' Downtime

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Inspired by the bright spirit and boundless energy of her daughter, Donnah Montemayor’s vision for Taylor's Play Café was borne of a personal struggle—balancing the demands of taking care of Taylor in a playground while trying to get work done. More than just a play space for children, the space offers parents a peaceful haven for much-needed relaxation and productivity, whichever you need at the time. Built on a foundation of love and care for the well-being of both children and parents, the café’s creation stems from a simple truth: being a parent is a delicate balancing act between work, life, and play. Taylor's Play Café continues to evolve as a place where families can find that (im)perfect harmony.

In partnership with Bloss Villafuerte, owner and director of Smallville Montessori Preschool, Taylor's Play Café weaves the magic of Montessori principles into every aspect of its play environment. Bloss’ expertise in early childhood education ensures that as children explore, learn, and have fun, they are engaged in activities thoughtfully designed to nurture their natural curiosity and encourage independent play. The indoor playground offers a perfect blend of energy and tranquility, as it offers action-packed areas for active play, while also offering cozy corners for calm and quiet activities. From diving into ball pits and slides, to quiet reading nooks and imaginative play - the play area has something for every mood and interest! Parents can relax, confident that their children are in a safe, enriching space that values both play and growth.

What truly sets Taylor's Play Café apart is its seamless blend of engaging, hands-on play areas for children and a cozy, relaxing café space for parents. Whether parents are looking for a productive spot to work or a quiet moment to enjoy a warm drink, the café is thoughtfully crafted to cater to the needs of both children and adults. While kids enjoy supervised, stimulating play, parents can unwind and take the well-deserved break they need.

Every corner of Taylor's Play Café has been carefully crafted with today’s families in mind. From play areas that spark creativity in kids to a welcoming café atmosphere for parents, this is a place where families can recharge together. We believe that when parents have time to relax, children thrive in an even more engaging and joyful environment.

At Taylor’s Play Café, it’s more than just play — it’s about bringing families together, fostering friendships, and creating lasting memories. Inspired by the everyday joys and challenges of parenting, we invite you to make us a part of your family’s routine. Whether you’re getting work done or catching up with friends while the kids are in school, letting them play after school or on weekends, or simply enjoying a light snack or sweet treat together, we have something for everyone. Our play passes start at P150 for 30 minutes. Some of our café favorites include bacon and cheese puffs, familia ensaymada, toasted bagels with avocado cream cheese and alfalfa sprouts, grilled cheese sandwiches, oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, and a wide variety of delicious coffee beverages.

Come visit us at Taylor's Play Café, located at G/F, The Strip Mall (formerly Industria Mall), Circulo Verde, Calle Industria, Brgy. Bagumbayan, Quezon City. We are open every day, from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. We can't wait to welcome you and your little ones into our cozy space!

For inquiries, you may WhatsApp/Viber Taylor’s Play Café at 0961-4369340.

Back-to-school vivo phones you must have this SY 2024-2025

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As the school year 2024-2025 approaches, students are gearing up for another exciting year of learning, socializing, and achieving their goals.

A reliable smartphone is essential to navigate academic challenges and stay connected with friends and family.

Leading smartphone brand, vivo, offers a range of models tailored to meet the diverse needs and budgets of students.

Explore the four must-have vivo phones for this school year: the vivo V30 Series, Y100, Y18, and Y03.

vivo V30 Series for memory-keepers

The vivo V30 Series is designed for those who prioritize camera quality and overall performance. This series is packed with advanced features and technology, making it perfect for students who love capturing every moment in stunning detail.

vivo V30 Pro

vivo V30

vivo V30e

The vivo V30 Pro, co-engineered with ZEISS, boasts a triple 50MP rear camera setup. Meanwhile, the vivo V30 has dual 50MP rear cameras while the vivo V30e has a 50MP Sony IMX882 main camera.

The entire vivo V30 Series also has an Aura Light 3.0, which is like a built-in mini ring light that helps you capture studio-quality portraits.

A top-notch camera is essential for students who enjoy photography, creating content for social media, or documenting their school life. Whether capturing memories at school events, working on creative projects, or taking selfies with friends, the vivo V30 Series ensures you always get the best shot.

vivo Y100 for fun yet hard-working students

The vivo Y100 stands out with its impressive fast-charging capability, making it an excellent choice for hard-working students who need a phone to keep up with their busy schedules.

vivo Y100

It features an 80W fast charge technology, allowing the battery to go from 0% to 100% in just 30 minutes. This ensures minimal downtime and maximum productivity.

The vivo Y100 is also for fashionista students. Enhance your personality and stand out in the crowd with vivo Y100's photochromic effect. When the phone hits the sun, it changes color in just seconds!

In a hectic school environment, having a phone that charges quickly but does not compromise style is a game-changer. Students can charge their phones between classes or during short breaks, ensuring they are always connected and ready for any task, be it academic, social, or entertainment-related.

vivo Y18 for budget-conscious memory-keepers

The vivo Y18 offers an excellent balance between affordability and camera quality, making it an attractive option for students on a budget.

Despite its budget-friendly price, the vivo Y18 does not compromise on camera performance as it has a 50MP multi-style portrait night camera.

vivo Y18

For students who need a good camera phone without spending too much, the vivo Y18 is the perfect solution. It offers great value for money, allowing students to capture memorable moments and complete photography-related school projects efficiently.

vivo Y03 for thrifty students

The vivo Y03 is an excellent choice for students who need a reliable smartphone on a tight budget. It offers impressive performance without compromising on essential features.

The Y03 is powered by an octa-core Helio G85 processor and sufficient RAM of up to 8GB, ensuring smooth performance for everyday tasks.

vivo Y03

For students who cannot spend much but still need a dependable phone for academic and personal use, the vivo Y03 is a perfect choice. It ensures good performance for running academic apps, staying connected with peers, and enjoying entertainment during breaks.

As you prepare for the school year 2024-2025, choosing the right smartphone is crucial. Whether you prioritize camera quality, fast charging, or affordability vivo offers a model that fits your needs.

The vivo V30 Series, Y100, Y18, and Y03 each provide unique features that cater to different student requirements, ensuring you stay connected and productive throughout the school year.

Explore these vivo models further to find the perfect fit for your needs. Visit the vivo website to learn more about each model.

Get hands-on experience at vivo concept stores or kiosks to make an informed decision and ensure you are ready for an exciting and successful school year ahead.

Go Back to School with the ASUS AND ROG COOL FOR SCHOOL PROMO, Bundles Worth up to PHP 41,900+!

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This back-to-school season, ASUS and the Republic for Gamers (ROG) Philippines are excited to announce the return of the ASUS and ROG Cool for School Promo, which will run from June 1 to August 15, 2024. This incredible promotion offers fantastic deals on a range of devices perfect for students who need top-notch tech for learning.

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Enter the New School Year with ASUS and ROG Cool for 

School Promo: June 1 - August 15, 2024!

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Enhance academic & creative Journey with ASUS Zenbooks & Vivobooks

Out with the old and in with the new AI-ready ASUS Zenbook premium productivity laptops. The ASUS Zenbook DUO (UX8406), ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED (UX3405), and ASUS Zenbook S 13 OLED (UX5304MA) redefine multitasking with the latest Intel Core Ultra processors, Intel Evo edition, and integrated Neural Processing Unit (NPU). Whether finishing a paper or balancing a part-time job, these devices provide seamless AI experiences to simplify tasks. Featuring 3K ASUS Lumina OLED displays, slim designs, and comprehensive I/O ports, these Zenbooks are perfect for efficient work and study anywhere. Starting at PHP 63,995, buyers can enjoy up to PHP 15,000+ worth of bundles, including an ASUS 3-in1 Bag, ASUS Marshmallow Mouse MD100, JBL Flip 5 and ASUS Premium Care Package.

Dream big and finish bigger this school year with the ASUS Vivobook series. Designed for everyday use, these laptops offer extensive 15- and 16-inch displays, ultra-fast processors, complete I/O ports, and long-lasting battery life in a stylish design. Choose between the ASUS Vivobook Go 15 OLED (E1504) and the ASUS Vivobook 16 (X1605, M1605), perfect for transitioning from classes to extracurricular activities. Starting at PHP 29,995, buyers can receive up to PHP 9,500+ worth of bundles, including an ASUS 3-in-1 Bag, ASUS Marshmallow Mouse MD100, ASUS Tumbler/Mousepad, Share Treats E-voucher for National Bookstore, and ASUS Premium Care Package.

Cultivate content creation skills with the ASUS Creator series. The ASUS Zenbook Pro 14 OLED (UX6404) and ASUS Vivobook Pro 15 OLED (M6500) offer high performance in thin, light forms. The Zenbook Pro 14 OLED features a 13th Gen Intel Core processor, while the Vivobook Pro 15 OLED boasts an AMD Ryzen 5000 series Mobile Processor. Both laptops include ASUS Lumina OLED displays with 120 Hz refresh rates, powerful NVIDIA graphics, ASUS exclusive thermal technology, and dedicated creator tools. Starting at PHP 54,995, buyers can enjoy up to PHP 17,000+ worth of bundles, including an ASUS Router RT-AX57 Go, ASUS Marshmallow Mouse MD100, JBL Flip 5, and ASUS Premium Care Package.

All participating Zenbook and Vivobook laptops have a free lifetime Office Home & Student license and a free ASUS 4A Quality and Service Package out of the box and are available in ASUS Concept Stores and Multi-brand Shops nationwide. Visit https://ph.asus.click/asuszenbookvivobookcfs24 for a complete list of participating products.

Win grades and games with ROG & TUF gaming devices

Experience epic gaming-on-the-go with the ROG Ally. This powerhouse handheld is equipped with AMD’s Z1 chipset, ensuring high-speed switching between gaming, productivity, and entertainment. The bundle, valued at PHP 6,500, includes the ROG Cetra True Wireless earbuds, PHP 2,000 worth of STEAM CREDITS, and a 3-month subscription to XBOX Game Pass. On top is a PHP 2,000 discount. Overall, the promo package will be valued at PHP 8,500.

Stay cool and connected with the ROG Phone 8, bundled with the ROG Aeroactive Cooler X worth PHP 4,995. This smartphone ensures peak performance during intense gaming sessions and offers upgraded cameras for everyday student life.

Redefine gaming and academic life with the ROG Zephyrus G16 and the ROG Zephyrus Duo 16. The Zephyrus G16 boasts the latest performance of the AMD Ryzen 9 and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090, plus the sweet visual experience of the first-ever ROG Nebula Display with OLED Panel. A purchase of this during the promo may include exclusive bundles worth up to PHP 19,900+, which may come with the ROG Azoth Keyboard and the ASUS Premium Care Package. On the other hand, the ROG Zephyrus Duo 16 gives users more real estate with its dual screens and epic horsepower with the AMD Ryzen 9 and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090. This comes with exclusive bundle items such as an ROG Phone 6 and an ASUS Premium Care Package, valued up to PHP 41,900+.

“The Ultimate Force” is ready for demanding academic battles with the TUF Gaming Laptops, which offer durability and performance. Purchasing a TUF Gaming laptop includes items valued up to PHP 7,900+, such as PHP 1,000 worth of Steam CREDITS and the ASUS Premium Care Package.

All participating ROG and TUF Gaming laptops come complete with the ASUS 4A Quality and Service Warranty Package. Visit ASUS & ROG Concept Stores and Multi-brand Stores nationwide to level up your school year. For a full list of participating ROG and TUF Gaming devices, visit https://ph.rog.gg/rogtufgamingcfs24.

Upgrade learning from home experiences with incredible ASUS Education products

Whether it is a versatile Chromebook, a powerful desktop, or a sleek all-in-one PC, ASUS Education has the ideal solution!

The ASUS Chromebook Flip CX5 is your lightweight and versatile study buddy. It flips between a laptop and a tablet, making it perfect for notetaking, presentations, and streaming your favorite shows during breaks. With its long battery life and lightning-fast performance, it's built to keep up with your busy school days. The product comes complete with a PHP 7,400+ worth of discount.

For gamers, the ROG desktop series delivers top-tier performance. The ROG Strix G10DK features AMD Ryzen processors and NVIDIA GeForce graphics, ensuring smooth gameplay and multitasking. The ROG Strix GT15 G15CF offers lightning-fast speeds and stunning visuals for high-stakes gaming and intensive coursework. Depending on the model, the gaming desktops come with exclusive bundles worth up to PHP 6,999, which may include a JBL Flip 5 speaker, a printer, and a portable hard drive.

The ASUS S501MD combines powerful performance with a compact design, while the ASUS S501ME offers robust performance and ample storage for all your projects and entertainment needs. Depending on the model, the ASUS desktops may come with bundles worth up to PHP 2,995, which may include a printer, an ASUS tumbler, and a RAM module.

For a streamlined, space-saving solution, ASUS all-in-one PCs are perfect. The ASUS M3400WYA offers a crisp display and strong performance, making it an excellent choice for schoolwork and leisure. The ASUS A3402WBA, with its sleek design and powerful internals, is ideal for students who need a versatile, all-in-one solution for their academic and personal computing needs. Based on the variant, these products also come with bundles worth up to PHP 2,995, which may include a printer, an ASUS Tumbler, and a PHP 500 Share Treats E-voucher for National Bookstore.

Visit https://ph.asus.click/asuseducationcfs24 now for the complete list of participating devices.

For Academic Institutions looking for more than just laptops and desktops, the ASUS Education School Partnership Program provides a variety of benefits and features for both students and teachers alike – Be a School Partner Now. For more information, Talk to an Expert Now.

• Do not miss out on these fantastic deals and gear up for the new school year with ASUS and ROG. Visit the nearest ASUS and ROG Concept Stores and Multi-brand Stores nationwide to score epic deals and bundles with your newest back-to-school gadgets. For more updates on ASUS Philippines, ASUS for Business, ROG Philippines, and their incredible devices and offers, check out their Official Facebook Pages:

• · ASUS Philippines: https://www.facebook.com/ASUSph

• · ASUS for Business: https://www.facebook.com/asusforbusinessph

• · Republic of Gamers Philippines: https://www.facebook.com/asusrogph

UST tops off Henry Sy, Sr. Hall at Manila campus

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The University of Santo Tomas (UST) held the topping off ceremony of the Henry Sy, Sr. Hall last October 7, 2023. The ceremony is a builder’s tradition that highlights the placement of the final beam on top of the structure.

The seven-storey building is a tribute of the Sy family, the SM Group, and UST to the SM founder for his life-long education advocacy. It is equally a manifestation of the ever-growing desire of the UST Research and Endowment Foundation, Inc., Anargyroi: FMS Foundation, Inc. (AFI) and the 152-year old UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery (FMS) to further level up in the field of medicine.

The Henry Sy, Sr. Hall will serve as a hub for simulation in medical education, interactive student centered-learning, collaborative multidisciplinary research, and interprofessional education. It will house the Sts. Cosmas and Damian Simulation and Research Center.

“The Henry Sy, Sr. Hall will be a state-of-the-art structure designed to meet the challenges and expectations of a digitally-inclined medical education landscape. It will house technologically advanced facilities and equipment, which will complement the existing teaching, learning, and research practices of the University. It is yet another milestone, securing the UST FMS a relevant spot, a significant spot in Catholic medical education in the country, the region, and the world.” FMS Dean Dr. Ma. Lourdes Maglinao said about the Henry Sy. Sr. Hall.

“Medical students can access a broad range of digital tools and resources to enhance their learning and education as we were compelled to shift to e-learning and online course platforms,” UST Rector, Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P., said.

“Nowadays, keeping up with the advances in medical education is paramount to ensure that our students are competent, agile, and well-prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of the ever-changing educational landscape of modern medicine, and this building, this edifice, will give us state-of-the-art equipment, which will give our medical students a cutting-edge knowledge on how to use robotics as well as other equipment,” Fr. Ang added.

Designed by C.A. Ventura & Partners, the Henry Sy, Sr. Hall is on track to be completed by June 2024.

Back-to-School Laptops Guide: Essential factors to consider, from features to budget

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Watch out as Home Credit is the key to avail of sulit devices this upcoming academic year!

Today's technology is changing and improving at the highest level of development and change. It is constantly progressing through innovations and changes. The ability to do so depends on developing and changing technology.

In today's technology-driven world, gadgets like laptops have become essential tools in empowering students in their education. From college to grade school, students now rely on these devices to research information, access digital learning materials, complete assignments and activities, and even communicate with teachers and classmates.

This reality calls for a reliable and efficient partner that every student can use in their day-to-day needs, such as a versatile laptop that can multitask and handle demanding applications for school tasks. However, this back-to-school season, parents and students have various options to choose from.

The good thing is that Home Credit, a leading consumer finance company, is here to guide you on your quest to find the perfect device for the upcoming school year. From features for usability to budget, here are the ‘wais’ things you should look for before purchasing a laptop.

Check its performance for everyday tasks

A laptop’s performance can affect a student’s overall productivity. Lags or slow response times can interfere with a student’s ability to work efficiently on school activities, assignments, and projects at a given time. For that reason, it is vital to have a high-performance or reliable laptop that can provide a smooth multitasking experience.

Check if the device has a powerful processor and at least 8GB of RAM for better performance. Additionally, ensure it has the latest operating system for compatibility with modern applications and a good graphics card if school tasks require various editing software and more. Such features are built in a wide range of laptops, including Acer Aspire Vero Work Laptop, Asus TUF Gaming F15 Laptop, and Apple MacBook Air Gold 8GB RAM/256GB.

Ensure bigger storage for files, applications

Storage is a vital feature to consider when looking for a laptop this upcoming academic year. Having a sizable storage will give a student enough space to store different files, such as research papers, learning materials, and more. It can also provide considerable storage for educational applications and software with larger sizes. With that in mind, make sure to get a laptop built with at least 500GB to 1TB of ROM to not worry about running out of capacity, such as the Huawei Matebook D15 i5 11th Gen, HP 15S Work Laptop, and ASUS Vivobook 15.

Assess its battery, design for portability

For students, the battery is a crucial factor for a laptop. Power outlets are not always available for the next recharge whenever they are outside the house or on campus. With long-lasting battery power, students can take their laptops anytime and anywhere and use the device for an extended period to work on their school tasks. Look for a laptop equipped with a battery that has the power to last for more than eight hours. For instance, there are the Acer Aspire 3 i3 and the HP 15S i3 Silver Laptop for a reliable study partner.

Additionally, a laptop’s weight and dimensions impact its portability. Because students sometimes bring their laptops to school, a heavier or bulkier device may not be ideal as it might strain their shoulders and backs. That is why always consider a lighter and slimmer design like the Realme Book i3 Work Laptop for a handy device.

Make sure it adheres to the budget

If there is already an established budget for the laptop, stick to it to avoid overspending. As there are various options available out there, it is appropriate to first compare the specs and prices before buying. Choose the one that is affordable and has the specs that can meet a student’s needs, and do not forget to take advantage of on-sale laptops to save money.

Get ‘sulit’ laptops with Home Credit this back-to-school season

To avail of powerful or reliable laptops this coming school year, Home Credit is the key! With its back-to-school promo, enjoy flexible POS with 0% interest to purchase ‘sulit’ laptops.

You can get your hands on the best high-performance laptops below PHP2,499 per month, such as Acer Aspire Vero Work Laptop, Asus TUF Gaming F15 Laptop, and Apple MacBook Air Gold 8GB RAM, among others. There are also value-for-money laptops under PHP1,999 per month, including Huawei Matebook D15 i5 11th Gen, HP 15S Work Laptop, ASUS Vivobook 15, and more.

If you want budget-friendly laptops below PHP1,499 per month, then Home Credit got you covered because you can take advantage of the Acer Aspire 3 i3, ASUS Ryzen 3 Laptop, Realme Book i3 Work Laptop, and more.

Aside from these ‘sulit’ laptops, Home Credit has more in store if you are a Home Credit customer. You can also enjoy its back-to-school cash loan promo that you can use for other school expenses. With just one minute of processing time, you can enjoy PHP3,000 up to PHP150,000 loan amount with flexible payment options from 12 to 60 months. Other than that, if you are an eligible customer, you can also have up to five months of free installment when you pay on time.

So, what are you waiting for? Shop now with Home Credit, and do not miss the chance to enjoy its back-to-school promo. Visit this link to be updated.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see what’s new in the Marketplace.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

Go for Gold: College of Nursing of the Our Lady of Fatima University Golden Anniversary and Grand Alumni Homecoming

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It is a dream come true for many Filipinos to finally become a nurse and serve the country and the world but for the College of Nursing of the Our Lady of Fatima University in Valenzuela City, it is a testament to its vision more than 50 years ago to form men and women highly professional imbued with the sense of mission to care for the sick.

Fifty years after its first batch of graduates in 1973, the College of Nursing of the Our Lady of Fatima University- Valenzuela Campus has become the home not only of so many topnotchers in the Nursing board exams but most of all, the seedbed of some of the most caring nurses in the country and the world.

A month after celebrating the International Nurses Day (May 12), the College of Nursing of Our Lady of Fatima University-Valenzuela Campus celebrates its 50th founding anniversary and grand alumni homecoming on June 24, 2023 at the RISE Tower corner Fatima Ave. and McArthur Highway, Valenzuela City.

Registration starts at 4:00 PM.

The weeklong celebrations kicked off last Sunday with its annual free medical-dental clinics at the quadrangle of the Valenzuela campus. Rendering services were students and faculty members of the College of Nursing and some alumni who have come home from the US and Europe to attend the Gala Night on Saturday.

For all alumni, please get in touch with Ms. Roselle Rustia at 0935-852-7556 or Ms. Rosanna Suva at 0920-979-0253.

They may also check with the Alumni Affairs Office at alumniaffairs@fatima.edu.ph.

Chevron sponsors AmCham Foundation ScholaRun to help send youths to school

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To help send disadvantaged youths to school, Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), marketer of the Caltex brand of fuels and lubricants, together with its shared services center, Chevron Holdings Inc., sponsored the recent 9th AmCham Eat and Run ScholaRUN at the Liwasang Ulalim, CCP Complex, Pasay City.

The run-for-a-cause is an annual event by the American Chamber Foundation Philippines, Inc. (ACFPI) to help raise funds for its scholarship program. ACFPI supports underprivileged youth through various development and education initiatives.

The scholarship enables students in high school, college, and vocational courses to fund their tuition fees and school supplies and provides allowance and guidance all to way to their on-the-job training. At least 2,000 former AmCham scholars were able to finish their studies since the program started which Chevron has always supported.

About 175 employees from CHI and CPI joined the run in support of the AmCham Foundation's cause. The event registered over 3,000 runners.

“We have been a long-time partner of AmCham and its initiatives and programs. Through this activity, we were able to further strengthen our relationship and commitment to the foundation as well as our support to their scholars. We trust that through our collective efforts, students get a chance to have a better life and more opportunities to succeed,” shared Chevron Human Resources Regional Manager Mark Quebral.

“It’s a great feeling knowing that your mere presence and participation is already helping underprivileged students in their studies. As added bonus, you also get to do something good for yourself through exercising and staying active. Chevron believes in AmCham’s cause of contributing to the community and helping people in need, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with them and supporting their other events and activities,” CHI General Manager Ethan Flowers shared.

At the awards ceremony after the run, CHI Corporate Affairs Manager Arlita Narag accepted a plaque of appreciation as AmCham’s co-presenter of the 9th ScholaRUN. Hammering on its unique eat-and-run concept, participants got to taste American favorites such as pizza, burgers and donuts upon reaching the pit stop. The 9th Eat and Run ScholaRUN featured categories in 200M, 3K, 5K, 10K and 21K.

“We are very happy with the turnout and the general mood of the run. We are, after all, doing this for students and youth in need, so we are beyond grateful to all who participated. Currently, we have 50 scholars studying vocational technology at Don Bosco Makati. All the proceeds from our fundraising events, including the ScholaRUN - Eat & Run, go to our scholarship programs. So as always, we appreciate our sponsors, partners and participants who made this event possible,” said Edwin Feist, President of ACFPI.

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About Chevron

Chevron is one of the world’s leading integrated energy companies. We believe affordable, reliable, and ever-cleaner energy is essential to achieving a more prosperous and sustainable world. Chevron produces crude oil and natural gas; manufactures transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals, and additives; and develops technologies that enhance our business and the industry. We are focused on lowering the carbon intensity in our operations and growing lower carbon businesses along with our traditional business lines. More information about Chevron is available at www.chevron.com.

Nestlé Wellness Campus: Empowering students, parents, and teachers to live healthier lives

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COVID-19 is a serious illness the whole world is currently battling, but this should not hinder us from taking care of other health problems. This includes malnutrition, which has been a concern among children, even before the pandemic. Malnutrition is one of the biggest impediments to human development. Children who are stunted, wasting, or obese may have some trouble performing at school, may experience low self-esteem, and later on, suffer long-term effects as an adult.

According to a report from the Food and Nutrition Research Institute, 26% or 1 out of 4 school children are underweight, which is a condition where children are found to weigh below the standard weight for the child’s age. A survey last year also showed that 62% or 6 out of 10 of households experienced moderate to severe food insecurity -- the state in which people are at risk or actually suffering from inadequate consumption to meet nutritional requirements.

Students from Pasig engaged in one of the pre-pandemic activities of the NWC program

In taking care of children’s nutrition, health, and wellness, we help ensure that they can have a brighter future ahead. However, due to lack of knowledge or resources, children are not able to eat food that is of adequate quality and quantity which is the number one cause of malnutrition.

“This is because we all know that an unhealthy child cannot learn as much as one who is healthy, well-fed, and given nutritionally sufficient assistance, especially for those who cannot afford the expense of maintaining healthy children,” DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones said during a Memorandum of Agreement signing last January 2021.

The first inter-school dancercise competition in Antipolo back in 2014

As a Kasambuhay sa Kalusugan of Filipinos, Nestlé ensures that children get the proper nutrition they need through the Nestlé Wellness Campus (NWC) program, in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd). Established in 2013, the program began with the goal of raising awareness and providing educational materials to pursue wellness daily. One of their activities was a dance program after the flag ceremony to promote an active lifestyle. Nutritionist-dietitians also gave talks about balanced and healthy food choices to address the nutrition gaps and encourage healthier eating habits.

Over the years, NWC grew and was embraced by different DepEd regions. The dance program evolved into an inter-school and inter-region competition to recognize the best schools that have implemented the program in their community. Nestlé is committed to promoting nutrition, health, and wellness in the new normal by providing digital tools such as nutrition and sustainability modules, and wellness song and dance videos to educate students, teachers, and parents on the seven healthy habits they can apply at home.

Teachers using the NWC digital modules in their online classes to promote health and wellness to their students

Nestlé also recognized teachers who went the extra mile to sustain and reinforce its healthy habits and create innovative learning experiences for children. They launched an exclusive NWC Facebook Group to continue their commitment and strengthen the pivot online. In this group which now has more than 47,000 members, teachers get to learn and share best wellness practices in their schools. Additionally, a Facebook Group exclusive for parents is also underway to provide them access to wellness content for their children and the entire family.

The program started at only 250 high schools with a total of 650,000 students in the National Capital Region (NCR) during its first year. Now, NWC has grown to inspire more than 7 million students from Grades 1 to 10 in 13,000 schools to live healthier lives. For SY 2021-2022, Nestlé anticipates the program to reach more than 10 million students across 7 regions nationwide, namely: NCR, CALABARZON, Bicol, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Northern Mindanao, and Davao.

Collaborating alongside the government, Nestlé drives its purpose by unlocking the power of food to enhance the quality of life for everyone today and for the generations to come. “Nestlé Philippines, as a Kasambuhay sa Kalusugan, is actively engaged in supporting Filipino families to achieve a healthier and active lifestyle, especially in the face of the pandemic,” Kais Marzouki, Nestlé Philippines Chairman and CEO said.

To learn more about how you and your family can start your wellness journey, join the Nestlé Wellness Homeroom Facebook Group. For some inspiration, watch the Kasambuhay for Good docuseries to see how Nestlé and its partners are empowering communities through nutrition, health, an

COVID-19: Schools for more than 168 million children globally have been completely closed for almost a full year, says UNICEF

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UNICEF unveils ‘Pandemic Classroom’ at United Nations Headquarters in New York to call attention to the need for governments to prioritize the reopening of schools

NEW YORK, 3 March 2021 – Schools for more than 168 million children globally have been completely closed for almost an entire year due to COVID-19 lockdowns, according to new data released today by UNICEF. Furthermore, around 214 million children globally – or 1 in 7 – have missed more than three-quarters of their in-person learning.

The analysis of the school closure report notes that 14 countries worldwide have remained largely closed from March 2020 to February 2021. Two-thirds of those countries are in Latin America and the Caribbean, affecting nearly 98 million schoolchildren. Of the 14 countries, Panama has kept schools closed for the most days, followed by El Salvador, Bangladesh, and Bolivia.

“As we approach the one-year mark of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are again reminded of the catastrophic education emergency worldwide lockdowns have created. With every day that goes by, children unable to access in-person schooling fall further and further behind, with the most marginalized paying the heaviest price,” said Henrietta Fore UNICEF Executive Director. “We cannot afford to move into year two of limited or even no in-school learning for these children. No effort should be spared to keep schools open, or prioritize them in reopening plans.”

School closures have devastating consequences for children’s learning and wellbeing. The most vulnerable children and those unable to access remote learning are at an increased risk of never returning to the classroom, and even being forced into child marriage or child labor. According to latest data by UNESCO, more than 888 million children worldwide continue to face disruptions to their education due to full and partial school closures.

The majority of schoolchildren worldwide rely on their schools as a place where they can interact with their peers, seek support, access health and immunization services and a nutritious meal. The longer schools remain closed, the longer children are cut off from these critical elements of childhood.

To call attention to the education emergency and raise awareness about the need for governments to keep schools open, or prioritize them in reopening plans, UNICEF today unveiled ‘Pandemic Classroom,’ a model classroom made up of 168 empty desks, each desk representing the million children living in countries where schools have been almost entirely closed – a solemn reminder of the classrooms in every corner of the world that remain empty.

“This classroom represents the millions of centers of learning that have sat empty—many for almost the entire year. Behind each empty chair hangs an empty backpack—a placeholder for a child’s deferred potential,” said Fore. “We do not want shuttered doors and closed buildings to obscure the fact that our children’s futures are being put on indefinite pause. This installation is a message to governments: we must prioritize reopening schools, and we must prioritize reopening them better than they were before.”

As students return to their classrooms, they will need support to readjust and catch up on their learning. School reopening plans must incorporate efforts to recover children’s lost education. UNICEF urges governments to prioritize the unique needs of every student, with comprehensive services covering remedial learning, health and nutrition, and mental health and protection measures in schools to nurture children and adolescents’ development and wellbeing. UNICEF’s Framework for Reopening Schools, issued jointly with UNESCO, UNHCR, WFP, and the World Bank, offers practical advice for national and local authorities.

A different kind of online learning for your kids at Macquarie Prep School : The innovative preschool, open for enrollment year-round, takes the Montessori Method online

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With the current situation resulting in a necessary shift to digital learning, it’s only normal that parents be concerned about how to educate their children away from the actual schools. While learning using the internet and other online resources may be innovative, the quality of learning children receive through these methods is also an important thing to consider.

These challenges in the online learning era are why Macquarie Preparatory School is bringing its fun and unique Montessori Method to preschoolers at home, with all-year-round enrollment open to students across the Philippines in the 2020-2021 school year.

Macquarie, an accredited Member of Montessori Australia, is a preschool that teaches its students the basics of reading, writing, and arithmetic using the highly-touted Montessori Method. Through the Montessori Method, students learn lessons through the use of Montessori materials designed to teach concepts. Of course, Macquarie’s highly-trained teachers are also present to guide students in each learning session through video conferencing.

During the current pandemic, these Montessori materials can be sent to their homes or picked up at the campus—with nationwide delivery available. Class sizes are capped at four students per class to best maximize the potential for learning in each session.

Parents are also encouraged to lend a hand in their child’s learning, as Macquarie gives them a digital app that allows them to review lessons, track their child’s progress, contact administrators, and more. They also get access to a digital library with which they can practice reading at home.

With the Montessori Method and the experience and expertise of its staff, Macquarie Preparatory School can get your child ready not just for school, but for life. Let go of your worries about your child’s learning in these extraordinary times, and schedule an online consultation at macquariepreschool.com/book-online.

For more info on Macquarie Preparatory School and its online classes, follow Macquarie on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MacquariePreschoolPH, on YouTube at Macquarie Preschool, on Instagram at @macquariepreschoolph, and visit the website at www.macquariepreschool.com.

Globe and Google for Education to transform digital learning in local schools

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As another academic year approaches, schools and universities are preparing to utilize and maximize distance learning following the government’s quarantine guidelines. Globe is partnering with Google for Education, to meet the growing demand for better academic services and transform the digital learning experience.

Google for Education is an ecosystem of products, programs, and training grounded on the platform’s innovative tools and resources. Through the partnership, Globe will provide a comprehensive onboarding process, tailor-made teacher training, and strong after-sales support for partner schools and institutions nationwide. 

“We have seen how technology has powered many industries amid the COVID-19 pandemic. We believe we can do the same for the education sector through blended or fully online learning. Together with Google for Education, we aim to boost the digital learning efforts of the Philippines’ educational system through more accessible, user-friendly, and interactive solutions for parents, teachers, and students,” says Mark Abalos, Segment Head for Education at Globe. 

Google for Education offers the following suite of services:

G Suite for Education. This platform offers best-in-class productivity tools built for the classroom, including Gmail, Classroom, Docs, Spreadsheets, Slides, and Drive. Cloud-based technology allows for collaborative learning, so teachers and students can work on lessons simultaneously.

Classroom. The Google Classroom makes the teaching experience more seamless for educators. Here, teachers can create and manage assignments with ease. Classwork pages organize assignments into modules, so educators can better facilitate discussions. They can also use built-in grading tools to sync test results and feedback in one location. Originality reports can analyze authenticity in papers and flag statements that need citations.

Meet. This service allows teachers to connect with students virtually through secure video calls and messaging. Each classroom can have up to 250 participants per call and up to 100,000 live stream viewers. Meet also makes it easier for both teachers and students to join a classroom, as each class can have a dedicated meeting space with a unique link.

Socratic. Google’s AI-powered tutor helps students navigate the learning process through high-quality videos, concept explanations, and online resources. The platform also offers curated subject guides for quick reference. When students need clarification, they can use the built-in voice and photo input to ask a question.

Read Along. Students can improve their literacy skills through this speech-based reading tutor. This platform provides an expressive and animated reading assistant to keep students engaged and help them in their reading journey. Educators can listen to a student read aloud and provide corrective feedback.

Google Forms. Teachers can create forms, surveys, and quizzes using Google Forms. Through G Suite Integration, they can import questions from Docs and Sheets. Grading is also now faster, easier, and automated as they can view results in a chart, graph, or spreadsheet format. To maintain integrity, locked mode prevents students from browsing other websites during a test.

Chromebook. This secure, simple, and powerful device is easy for schools to set up and manage. The Chrome Education upgrade unlocks the full capabilities of the device to help both students and teachers thrive in the new normal. The App Hub connects educators with Chrome-verified developers to access useful tips and content by grade, subject, and educational goals.

G Suite Enterprise for Education. Academic institutions can upgrade their digital environment with educational tools and security controls. G Suite Enterprise elevates both teaching and learning through an institution-wide email database using GMail, security and administration controls, and eDiscovery for emails, chat, and files. Schools can also access a 24/7 support platform via phone, email, and online.

With Globe myBusiness’ partnership with Google, academic institutions can improve the overall education experience for students and help them learn amid the new normal. 

Learn more how you can excel in the ever-changing landscape of 21st Century learning with Globe myBusiness via https://www.globe.com.ph/business/sme/education-offers.