“Mahal Ka Namin DITO”: DITO declares its love for Filipino subscribers with this heart-warming holiday video

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In celebration of Filipinos’ favorite time of the year, DITO Telecommunity is dedicating a special Christmas video to its millions of subscribers all over the country.

The video features inspiring stories of three DITO employees across different fields, each narrating how every effort they put into what they do at DITO is a labor of love not just for their loved ones but also to provide the telco service that Filipinos truly deserve. In “Mahal Ka Namin DITO,” the newest telco player reinforces their commitment to serve its subscribers fully recognizing the role that connectivity plays in their day-to-day lives.

“The best gift we can give our subscribers this Christmas is our exceptional service. While there may be some changes in the way we celebrate the holidays this year, we aim to bridge the gap by allowing Filipinos to remain connected with their families, friends, and loved ones.” said DITO’s Chief Administrative Officer Atty. Adel Tamano.

“We in DITO want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Filipinos who have given us a lot of reasons to celebrate during our launch year. We hope that through the video, our subscribers can see the passion and dedication of the entire DITO team to make sure that they made the right choice in supporting DITO,” added Atty. Tamano.

Aside from the video, DITO has a lot of exciting activities in store for everyone this holiday season. Topping the list is the DITO Loaded ang Pasko month-long promo with thousands of daily prizes for lucky participants. From December 6, 2021 to January 15, 2022, you can earn raffle entries simply by activating your DITO SIM, subscribing to DITO promos, logging in the DITO APP, or subscribing to DITO’s streaming platform partners. DITO will also have collaborations with various influencers on TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram through live streams and fun challenges.

Throughout the Mahal Ka Namin DITO Christmas campaign, subscribers and non-subscribers alike will experience love in different ways online and offline. You can check out @DITOPhOfficial on social media and visit DITO Experience Stores nationwide for more details!

Find out more about DITO Telecommunity’s Christmas campaign and watch the Mahal Ka Namin DITO video on @DITOPhOfficial:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ewzEyzhqEGU

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DITOphofficial/videos/283155313753008/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DITOphofficial/status/1466325543742177280

Ginto: Jollibee and McCann Worldgroup Philippines release special Kwentong Jollibee on Hidilyn Diaz’s inspiring journey

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While the whole nation rejoiced and celebrated the historic feat of Hidilyn Diaz during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, not everyone knew of the hardships that she had to overcome to reach her dream of winning the country’s first Olympic Gold medal. Now, her story of “lakas at puso” which made all that possible is immortalized in Jollibee’s latest Kwentong Jollibee, “Ginto”.

Jollibee is one with Filipinos in paying tribute to Hidilyn

through her own Kwentong Jollibee short film

The short film chronicles the life-long journey of Hidilyn in typical Kwentong Jollibee fashion – heartwarming, tugs at the heartstrings and filled with life lessons – while aimed at continuing to inspire Filipinos to reach their own dreams.

“We wanted to pay tribute not just to Hidilyn’s victory, but to her strength, heart and resilience, which truly brought joy and uplifted the nation. And we thought it fitting to produce her own Kwentong Jollibee, not just to thank her for her feat but to somehow share her story so that we Filipinos can continue to be inspired by what she has achieved”, said Arline Adeva, Jollibee Philippines Assistant Vice President and Head of Brand PR, Engagement, and Digital Marketing.

Ginto showed how Hidilyn, despite the lockdown and being away from her family,

persevered to reach her golden dream.

“Ginto” is directed by internationally acclaimed and resident Kwentong Jollibee director Pepe Diokno. The latest Kwentong Jollibee film is centered on how Hidilyn has become a champion and a Filipino icon who proved that hard work and grit pays off. “People can expect an inspiring story about dealing with defeat, and winning with perseverance,” he said. Direk Pepe also added that giving hope and providing inspiration was at the core of this latest Kwentong Jollibee film. “I think with the current situation, many Filipinos feel defeated and divided, but Hidilyn’s win gave us strength and brought us together,” he said.

Hidilyn shared that she is honored to have her own Kwentong Jollibee,

and is proud to be part of a well-loved Filipino brand.

For her part, Hidilyn cherished being part of her own, special Kwentong Jollibee. “Lahat naman tayo kilala ang Kwentong Jollibee. Usually, ito yung tungkol sa love and relationships. Masaya lang ako kasi naipakita dito yung love for sports, love for your dream, and love for your country. Sana naipakita namin yung inspirasyon na maidudulot nung Kwentong Jollibee Ginto,” Hidilyn said.

Hidilyn’s Kwentong Jollibee shows how “lakas at puso” are key to achieving your dreams

While Hidilyn’s rise to become a modern-day icon and the country’s pride and joy was well-documented, Jollibee and McCann worked together to creatively tell her story in a way that would make a lasting impact. “Everyone knows her story by now so the challenge was how to shine a new light on her in a way that would inspire and motivate Filipinos who may also be experiencing struggles and challenges,” explained NJ Mijares, Creative Director of McCann Worldgroup Philippines. “With every Kwentong Jollibee we create, we always ask ourselves ‘is this relatable? Will other people feel the same way?’ More so with this one. Because we're telling a story of a very specific person with a very specific achievement, we tried to tell it in a way that mirrors the dreams, the struggles, and the journey of millions of Filipinos.”

Watch the Kwentong Jollibee Ginto on the official Jollibee Facebook page and on Jollibee Studios YouTube channel, and join the conversation online by using the hashtag #KwentongJollibeeGinto.

CREDITS

• Client: Jollibee
• JFC Country Marketing Head and Jollibee PH Marketing Head: Francis Flores
• AVP and Head of Brand PR, Engagement and Digital Marketing: Arline Adeva
• Senior Brand PR and Communications Manager: Dennis Reyes
• Brand PR and Communications Officer: Elise Maog
• Agency: McCann Worldgroup Philippines
• Associate Managing Partner: Mitzie Lim-Nacianceno
• Associate Business Group Director: Joms Robles
• Account Manager Chloe Adaraya
• Executive Creative Director: Sid Samodio
• Creative Director: NJ Mijares
• Art Director: Gabby Alcazaren
• Strategic Planning Director: Earl Javier

BINI And BGYO Gear Up For First Sibling Concert In P-Pop History On November 6, 7

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Less than a year after their official launches, P-pop’s fast-rising stars BINI and BGYO have enjoyed several milestones with their fans: BINI’s music video for their debut single, “Born to Win,” was featured in MTV Asia last month and has already crossed one million views, while BGYO has landed on the number one spot on Billboard’s global Next Big Sound chart, coinciding with the release of their latest single “The Baddest,” which just surpassed one million views on YouTube.

Having grown together from being trainees to full-fledged rookie idol groups, BINI and BGYO are taking the next big steps that will define their journey and their sound as they gear up for their upcoming joint concert and respective debut albums.

BINI and BGYO are making history with their sibling concert – the first in P-pop – called “One Dream: The BINI x BGYO Concert,” which will be streamed worldwide on November 6 and 7 on KTX.PH, iWantTFC, and TFC IPTV.

“One Dream: The BINI x BGYO Concert” is also the first two-day concert in the Philippines to feature a unique repertoire per day, promising a grand extravaganza of world-class performances of old favorites and new releases.

The November 6 show will be filled with electrifying performances by each group, collaborations on fan-favorite songs, and exciting numbers by surprise guest artists. On November 7, BINI and BGYO will present more live collabs, sub-unit performances, powerful vocal showcases, and a fan meet on KTX.PH.

Fans who want to buy the SVIP tickets, which are available starting August 31 and are priced at P1,950 or US$39.99, will be able to watch the two shows and join the fan meet on KTX.PH. VIP tickets, meanwhile, will be sold at P1,490 or US$29.99 on KTX.PH, iWantTFC, and TFC IPTV and will provide access to the two shows.

A special early bird promotion for VIP tickets will have a limited run from August 31 to September 2 only. Those who want to buy early will have access to the two shows with a special price of P999 or US$19.99.

Before their joint concert in November, both groups are coming out with their much-awaited full-length debut albums, both of which will have all-original songs. Some members of the groups also got to flex their creativity by composing their own songs for the albums.

For BINI, fans can anticipate the release of the group’s sophomore single in September before the whole debut album drops in October.

BGYO, on the other hand, will continue promoting “The Baddest,” whose music video recently trended worldwide on YouTube and hit number one on iTunes Philippines, before the release of the album, also in October.

Purchase your tickets now to watch “One Dream: The BINI x BGYO Concert,” on November 6 and 7 on KTX.PH, iWantTFC, and TFC IPTV.

Get regular updates by following BINI_ph and BGYO_ph on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and subscribing to their official YouTube channels, BINI Official and BGYO Official.

Kapamilya Online Live Goes 24/7 On YouTube, Now Available In More Countries Worldwide

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ABS-CBN is going online all day and all night to keep its subscribers entertained as its free live streaming service, Kapamilya Online Live, becomes available 24/7 on ABS-CBN Entertainment’s YouTube channel in more countries worldwide.

The leading Philippine media company announced the free offering to celebrate the first anniversary of Kapamilya Online Live, and to thank all viewers who continue to watch its shows wherever they are in the world.

It's around-the-clock streaming of binge-worthy entertainment is accessible on YouTube in the Philippines and in over 180 countries worldwide.

Viewers can also get more fun, action, drama, and romance from the latest episodes of “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano,” “Huwag Kang Mangamba,” “Init sa Magdamag,” and “La Vida Lena,” which may be replayed for seven days after they are initially live-streamed.

Apart from the streaming of shows, viewers on both Facebook and YouTube can enjoy interacting with fellow Kapamilyas in the chat section, engage with the stars in gap shows that stream during commercial breaks such as “Showtime Online” and “iWant ASAP,” and be part of “It’s Showtime’s” virtual studio audience.

The 24/7 programming will also include well-loved shows “Ningning,” “Bagani,” “Dyosa,” “Palibhasa Lalake,” “Banana Split” and various blockbuster Filipino movies such as “Volta” and “Crazy Beautiful You” on weekends.

Kapamilya Online Live provides live and on-demand streaming of shows to ABS-CBN Entertainment’s 35.5 million subscribers – the highest among all YouTube channels in Southeast Asia. In the last three months, the YouTube channel has also drawn 72.8 million unique viewers worldwide.

On Facebook, meanwhile, Kapamilya Online Live serves content daily to ABS-CBN’s 30.6 million followers.

In August 2020, ABS-CBN fully migrated to digital when it launched Kapamilya Online Live, which would become the online home of its shows as it sought to find ways to stay connected with Filipinos and provide them with entertainment, hope, and inspiration.

Those who would like to watch complete episodes of various ABS-CBN shows and access the most complete Filipino content library may sign up for iWantTFC, download its app (iOs and Android), or visit iwanttfc.com.

Catch the 24/7 Livestream of your favorite Kapamilya shows, old and new, on Kapamilya Online Live and subscribe to ABS-CBN Entertainment’s YouTube channel (youtube.com/abscbnentertainment) and like its Facebook page (fb.com/ABSCBNnetwork). To see the complete programming schedule, visit kapamilyaonlinelive.com.

Heaven in danger in "Bagong Umaga" finale

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Heaven is getting closer to pinning Diana (Glydel Mercado) for her crimes against her family and friends but she and her parents will face grave danger in the final week of “Bagong Umaga.” Diana escaped while being transferred to another mental facility.

Hospital staff and authorities discovered her communicating with suspicious individuals using a phone hidden in her room. Unbeknownst to all, she intended to be caught because the only way she could successfully escape is when she is transferred to another hospital.

Diana remains thirsty for revenge even after her escape and finding out that her daughter is still alive. She still wants to have the Veradonas killed because she believes that only when Tisay is gone will her daughter come to her.

But she will not be able to do this alone. She needs the help of one of Ian’s enemies – Matthew (Richard Quan).

Will Diana be able to convince Matthew to kill the Veradonas? Will their plan be discovered?

Watch the finale of “Bagong Umaga” this week on A2Z channel, Kapamilya Channel, and Kapamilya Online Live via the YouTube channel and Facebook page of ABS-CBN Entertainment, and iWantTFC. Outside the country, it is available on The Filipino Channel.

For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram or visit www.abs-cbn.com/newsroom

Japanese pop superstar Hikaru Utada returns with the music video release of new single “One Last Kiss”

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Hikaru Utada has finally dropped her long-awaited new single “One Last Kiss,” which serves as the theme song for the anime film, Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice upon a Time.

The music video of “One Last Kiss” was directed by Hideaki Anno who is the author, screenwriter, and director of the film Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon A Time. The visual accompaniment was released on Tuesday the 9th of March at midnight, the same time the song was released.

The collaboration, which has finally come to fruition with the conclusion of the "Evangelion: New Theatrical Edition" series, has received rave reviews from fans of both Hikaru Utada and Evangelion. The music video has already garnered more than 200,000 views on YouTube in the first 30 minutes, and has amassed over a million views in less than a day since it premiered.

By request from Hikaru Utada, Anno readily agreed to work on the video, saying "under the present circumstances [requiring measures for COVID-19], a possible way to create a music video without actually directing a video shoot would be for the artist to film herself and any other footage on her end, then sending them to me to cut and edit into the final video." Anno sent specific instructions via email including some requests for eye focus and lip sync.

With minimal staff help and implementation of all the necessary COVID precautions, the artist filmed the music videos in the outskirts of London. The video footage gathered during shoot , was then sent to Anno and his team in Japan for finishing.

The music video of Hikaru Utada’s “One Last Kiss” is available here.

Jamie Rivera sings the inspirational “We Give Our Yes,” the official mission song of ‘The 500 Years of Christianity in the Ph'

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“We Give Our Yes” music video out now! 

JAMIE RIVERA SINGS PH’S ‘500 YEARS OF CHRISTIANITY’ MISSION SONG

Jamie Rivera launched the inspirational “We Give Our Yes,” the official mission song of ‘The 500 Years of Christianity in the Philippines’ yearlong celebration that commenced this month.

She shared how she felt honored to sing the song during Star Music’s “We Give Our Yes” virtual media conference. 

“I think this is really my mission, a mission for me to be able to give people a prayer and, at the same time, they could sing with it as well,” Jamie said.

The Inspirational Diva introduced “We Give Our Yes” in a remarkable performance on “ASAP Natin ‘To” last Sunday, rendering it beautifully together with The Company and other Kapamilya singers Erik Santos, Jeremy Glinoga, Jed Madela, Jason Dy, and Nyoy Volante.

Jamie first performed the song live at the Manila Cathedral during the Archdiocese of Manila’s launch of the 500 Years of Christianity festivities on February 6. 

Meanwhile, Star Music released the “We Give Our Yes” music video, directed by Frank Mamaril, last week. Together with the lyric video, the song currently has more than 150K combined views on Star Music’s YouTube channel.

The MV, shot in Manila Cathedral, featured important Catholic Church events in the past.

It also showed Jamie wearing an immaculate Mak Tumang creation, which was inspired by the logo of the celebration.  

The motivating tune “We Give Our Yes,” originally commissioned by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the arrival of Christianity in the country, conveys the power of faith and hope during difficult times and reminds Filipinos to keep saying yes to the mission of Jesus.

Fr. Carlo Magno

Written by the multi-awarded composer Fr. Carlo Magno Marcelo, Jamie’s version of “We Give Our Yes” was produced by the award-winning hitmaker and ABS-CBN Music creative director Jonathan Manalo.

Jonathan Manalo

“We Give Our Yes” is now available on music streaming services worldwide. For more details, like Star Music on Facebook (www.facebook.com/starmusicph) and follow it on Twitter and Instagram (@StarMusicPH).

Dance Along to the Hottest TikTok Trends with the Help of Oliver Sullano's Tutorials

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TikTok has truly become a space where makers and movers can express themselves fearlessly. It has also become a venue for those who wish to share their knowledge and skills with others. 18-year old Oliver Sullano is one such creator, who, through his content, is able to teach others how to dance along to the latest TikTok trends. 

This multifaceted creator is a dancer, artist, athlete, and student. Despite his busy schedule, he is still able to share videos consistently with his followers. Oliver finds balance between all of his responsibilities by focusing on being productive, and avoiding wasting time on unnecessary things. He believes that, with discipline and the right mindset, you can do everything you need and want to do each day. 

Oliver has always loved dancing, and this is actually what compelled him to join TikTok. After seeing the various dance videos on the platform, he downloaded the app, and started trying them himself. Before long, he was creating his own original dance videos, along with other reliable content that his followers truly loved. 

https://www.tiktok.com/@odcs_/video/6822219479884352774

Once he found out how much happiness his posts could bring to others, Oliver knew he had to keep on creating. For Oliver, the best part about being a TikTok creator is getting to inspire other people to do better, and impacting their lives in a positive way. 

He never expected that he could connect with so many people just by doing what he loves and enjoys. This has made the challenge of posting regularly, and learning to deal with unavoidable haters, all worth it. He shares that, if you have even a second to look at negative comments, then you definitely have the time to see and appreciate the good things that are coming your way.

https://www.tiktok.com/@odcs_/video/6809494484154338566 

To aspiring creators, Oliver says, never give up. In order to achieve big things in life, you cannot take the easy way. Remember that small progress is still progress. Once you reach your goals, all the effort will be worth it. And, most importantly, love and enjoy what you do. 

Share what you know with others by becoming an Edu-Content Creator on #TikTokU! Join the #itstartsonTikTok hashtag challenge to begin your journey, or take it a step further with a hashtag of your own. Download TikTok today on your iOS and Android devices to get started.

TikTok sends love to the Filipino community in free online concert celebrating content diversity and creative expression

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On October 18, 2020, content creators and local celebrities from the Philippines came together for #GenTikTokPH, a two-hour online celebration of Generation TikTok - the diverse community that makes TikTok a place of joy, positivity and inspiration. 

Hosted by Macoy Dubs, Generation TikTok was streamed on the TikTok PH account via TikTok LIVE. Viewers were treated to an entertaining program filled with music and dance, side by side with pocket showcases featuring TikTok’s top trends and educational content. 

The show was headlined by three local artists who are all avid TikTokers, well-loved by their followers - Actor and singer, Iñigo Pascual, indie folk band, Ben&Ben, and singer-songwriter, Rico Blanco. Each performed a musical set, treating the audience to their top hits and fan favorite tracks. 

Interspersed with these musical performances were segments that underscored TikTok’s impactful content, #TikTokU and #itStartsonTikTok. Back in May 2020, #EduTok transformed the platform into a venue for learning everything, from practical life hacks to valuable skills for various careers. Giving the spotlight to educators and professionals like life coach Lyqa Maravilla, pharmacist Arshie Larga and medical intern Kilimanguru. The hashtag is now at 2.3B views and counting.

#GenTikTokPH did not fail to include what TikTok was first popularly known for -- trending dance challenges. TikTok dance creators shared the spotlight to pay tribute to one of TikTok’s biggest trends, Savage Love (Laxed Siren Beat). Each creator put their own spin on the popular dance trend, which features a catchy tune by Jason Derulo.

Meanwhile, the recently concluded campaign #itStartsonTikTok showed how the TikTok community pioneered trends and made online stars out of their favorite creators, and established a safe haven for self-expression and showcasing talents online. Adding more color and diversity to the ever-growing platform, veteran actress Gina Pareño testified how welcoming the TikTok community had been to her.

These viral hashtags are nods of approval to the culture that is very Filipino - value for education and love of entertainment.

“Generation TikTok is here. Everyone has a unique talent to share or a compelling story to tell. We are a community that supports and welcomes the creator in everyone. Through positive, joyful, and inspiring stories, we are spreading happiness and hopefully changing the world, one TikTok at a time,” said John Castro, User and Content Operations Manager, TikTok Philippines. 

Co-presented by SM Supermalls and Grab, with major sponsor TNT, Generation TikTok was truly a memorable event for all those who took part in the program, and the audience who enjoyed the show. 

Be part of #GenTikTokPH by checking out the hashtag on the app. Download TikTok on your iOS and Android devices to get started.

Meet the young and vibrant artist, YouTuber/ Vlogger Christi Fider with "Teka, Teka, Teka"

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Meet the newest recording artist, who is also a bubbly YouTuber and a vlogger Christi Fider with her single, “Teka, Teka, Teka" composed by award-winning songwriter Joven Tan, just released by Star Music.

“To be a successful singer,” is a dream that not everyone gets to realize. 

Not with Christi Fider, (known as ChristieV on YouTube)  At first glance, you may think she is just the average millennial whose main preoccupation is the latest fashion, trendy gadgets and having all her YOLO moments enumerated and shared via her vlog. There is more to the pretty young Ms. Fider that meets the proverbial eye.

Christi, the AB History graduate from University of Sto. Thomas was exposed to different sounds and music growing up in a family whose love for anything and everything that has to do with music is deeply rooted. The early musical exposure, thanks to all the tapes and vinyl records played at home, watching concerts and listening to the radio, made Christi realize that performing is what she loves and she thanks God for the gifted of a good singing voice.

Fider shares: 

“When I take my shower, usually I sing pop songs. I also like Broadway tunes as well. It depends on my mood, really. Sometimes I have the mood to like indie musicians, the type that ordinary people would not care to listen too, or something they are not familiar with. My music range is very wide. For now, I have a bit of struggle on what genre to specialize since it is dependent on my mood. If the song resonates with me, or I like the artists singing it, I’d probably sing it too.”

She loves the voice of Christina Aguilera which she thinks is Aguilera’s strength. She also loves Britney Spears, the way she moves and carries herself. As a kid, she was partial to Sarah Geronimo. Now, she listens to Marion Aunor and Moira dela Torre.

What made her say yes to sing TEKA, TEKA, TEKA? 

“I really love the songs written by direk Joven Tan. I know that am quite biased if he’s the composer of a song. It has a good meaning, and has good lyrics as well. What I noticed about today’s songs, the music is different. It is not lyrics-focused. Sometimes they give more emphasis to the sound. With the song Teka, Teka, I felt that many people can relate to it. Since it’s my debut single, I want something that pleasant to listen too because many people today are lonely. If they listen to Teka, Teka, it will give hope and bring joy to other people.”

Her feelings now that people are using the song as their TikTok anthem of choice: 

“Happy. No, ecstatic, I must say. Even if the song has yet to be released but some people already used it for TikTok. Zeus Collins was the first one who made a TikTok for it. Of course, I was surprised when he used it because he is known for dancing. I didn’t imagine that Teka Teka is can be used to dance too. I was surprised when Zeus even choreographed a dance for Teka Teka and the people followed it. He sets the standard and people followed it.”

She carries on: 

“I was likewise surprised with the people’s response to the song. They found the song danceable, uplifting and gives a happy vibe and energy. The bubbly pop version suits my personality. In Spotify, my song has an electronic kind of mix to it. But many listeners were able to relate to the pop version,”

As a new artist, she hopes her fellow millennials see her as: 

“I want them to see me as someone vibrant and bubbly. I want to bring back the danceable tunes. I want to give the beat and groove back to the people. That is something that everyone needs right. Times are hard and I hope that thru my song, I can help relieve the stress of others. Let us bring back the good times.”

Teka, Teka, Teka, is written by Joven Tan, interpreted by Christi Fider and released by Star Music. It is now available in Spotify, Apple Music, itunes, Youtube and Deezer.

Google Philippines to hold Pride Conversations online event on YouTube to honor the LGBTQ+ community

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MANILA, Philippines--As part of the concluding celebration of Pride Month, Google will hold an online event called “Pride Conversations” to create a discussion and champion some of today’s inspiring members of the Filipino LGBTQ+ community. This will be streamed live on Google Philippines YouTube channel on June 30, 2020 at 5:00PM. 

The speakers of the event continue to bring pride to the LGBTQ+ community through their achievements in their respective fields. Taking part in the discussion are Antipolo City Barangay Councilor Kristine Ibardolaza; Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery Fellow Dr. Berry Beriña; motorcycle enthusiast and vlogger Gaki Azurin, more popularly known as “GakiMoto”; comedian, host, and YouTube creator Mikey Bustos; and Google Philippines Program Manager Melai Lopez. 

“Google is committed to inclusion and this Pride month, we’re excited to share how we always support the LGBTQ+ community in a number of ways--from sustaining a diverse workplace culture, to providing grants, to hosting events around the world to continue the discussion on equality,” said Mervin Wenke, Communications and PR Head for Google Philippines. “We are glad to further show this commitment through our products like Google Maps which is helping enable a virtual Pride March initiative this year.” 

A home to LGBTQ+ employees

Google fosters a diverse and inclusive culture where LGBTQ+ employees are respected, celebrated, and empowered. The company ensures that they enjoy the same opportunity to shine, be heard, and succeed in the organization just as much as any other employee. Below are just some of the benefits for Google’s LGBTQ+ employees around the world including the Philippines:

• Same-sex health benefits: Google is committed to and provide same-sex health coverage for Googlers and their partners. 
• Employee assistance program: Google offers free emotional wellbeing support, 24/7, 365 days for Googlers and their dependents, as well as access to free expert information on legal, financial, and other topics. These services are confidential. 
• Parental leave: 
• A non-birth parent has at least 12 weeks of paid parental leave to spend with a new child (any parent who has a child born or adopted). 

• A ramp-back policy to help a non-birth parent transition back to work after a long leave is available. 

Googlers also have the freedom of establishing their preferred pronouns (he, she, xe, they) so colleagues will know how to best address a LGBTQ+ employee in the workplace to show inclusion and respect. 

“At Google, the use of preferred pronouns lives beyond work profiles and email signatures. Before a meeting begins, we may ask each other our preferred pronouns to address our colleagues accordingly and show respect. This demonstrates that LGBTQ+ employees are important and are always included in the discussion,” shares Melai Lopez, a trans woman and a Program Manager at Google Philippines.

Melai adds, “Google encourages us to form and participate in employee resource groups like Pride@Google. With this, I am able to use my voice to spark necessary conversations in the company and to contribute to the external LGBTQ+ community through high-impact programs and initiatives."

The “Pride Conversations” live event is part of Google’s initiatives for Pride Month, championing LGBTQ+ personalities whose stories serve as an inspiration for the community. Tune in on June 30, 2020 at 5:00 PM (Ph time) at Google Philippines YouTube channel.

About Google

Google's mission is to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful. Through products and platforms like Search, Maps, Gmail, Android, Google Play, Chrome and YouTube, Google plays a meaningful role in the daily lives of billions of people and has become one of the most widely-known companies in the world. Google is a subsidiary of Alphabet, Inc.