At least 3,000 highest need PHS students in MM receive STEM equipment, materials from Caltex Fuel Your School

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Manila, Philippines – About 3,000 students from the highest-need, senior-ready public high schools in Metro Manila are now learning science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) with the help of brand new equipment received recently from the Caltex Fuel Your School (FYS) program of Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), marketer of high-quality brand of Caltex fuels and lubricants.

A global Chevron social investment program that was first introduced in the country this year, Caltex FYS involved motorists and the public who supported the said campaign during the donation period wherein every 4-liter fuel purchase in any of the 153 Caltex stations in Metro Manila, Rizal, and Cavite generated one peso donation to fund the projects.

Chevron aims to reach a P5M donation fund or at least P150,000 per target beneficiary school. This amount was met during the fuel-up drive and social media campaign from June 15 to July 15, 2015. This funded the 28 STEM classroom proposals that were shortlisted by program partner American Chamber Foundation as submitted by 27 of the 33 schools pre-selected by DepEd as schools most in need of support in Metro Manila. 

The delivery of the STEM teaching tools such as laboratory equipment, engineering kits, scientific calculators, laptops, tablets and multi-media projectors to the schools were received with both delight and tears by the teacher-proponents, most of whom were still having a hard time believing their wishes had come true.

Kalayaan High School in Pasay City, teacher/project proponent Reynaldo Cordova said that “[These] brand new electronics and technical apparatus will help realize the dreams of the poorest of the poor students [of Kalayaan High School] of becoming free from poverty”. In Pasay City South High School, on the other hand, teacher/project proponent Jonalyn Suzara requested 303 units of brand new scientific calculators. “I can vividly remember how my students use palengke-style calculators in computing. They were complaining, ‘Ma’am, we cannot make logarithmic computations here.’ That will not be a problem anymore with these scientific calculators,” added Suzara.

Some of the teachers got emotional upon receiving their requested STEM equipment and materials. In Carlos L. Albert High School in Quezon City where most students have limited or no access to the Internet, teachers vouched that the state-of-the-art multimedia materials from Caltex FYS will help students learn faster through interactive participation. Said a teary-eyed Cecilia Biapo, the school’s science department head, “In the past, storms and typhoons forms were discussed through ‘MP3’ or ‘Manila Paper 1, 2, 3’. Now, we have 48-inch flat screen TV! Who wouldn’t want to see animations of cyclogenesis with that?” she relayed. 

Other schools took a step closer to their specific academic visions after receiving the STEM equipment. Imelda Quiban, the STEM department head of Pitogo High School in Makati City, shared, “To craft the finest biochemistry research, our student-researchers used to rent an autoclave – or sterilizer machine in a university in Laguna for PhP5,000. But now, we have our own! Whereas we were forced to use ‘vintage’ equipment, now our autoclave is shiny and brand new. Thanks to Caltex, our school will soon be the ‘center of science research’ in Makati.” 

To help spread awareness and thus enable more people to donate and like the projects posted in the FYS website, the Caltex campaign also ran a Facebook component, prompting several of the schools to devise gimmicks and strategies to rack up votes. Caloocan National Science and Technology High School, the smallest school among the shortlisted schools in terms of student population, emerged as the victor after getting the most number of votes. Teacher/project proponent Fel Rose Ignacio despite their relatively small school population campaigned to the students through a daily “Facebook voting hour” and had the students view the instructional video she and her co-teachers created exclusively for Caltex FYS. She recalled, “We uploaded this video and shared the link to the dedicated Facebook page in which all of our students were members, then they utilized the ‘web-of-mouth’ strategy and shared with their network.”

Also in the top three based on the Facebook voting rank are Culiat High School in Quezon City and Pasay City East High School. All three schools received a new laptop each as a bonus prize in addition to the STEM materials they asked for, for the untiring but fruitful campaigning both in social media and fuel-up drive.

Motorists and the social media community played a significant role in the Caltex FYS program. Entrepreneur Mich Mori said, “I supported the campaign because I wanted to do my part in helping these kids have a bright future. Who would’ve thought that a portion of my weekly gas expense can turn into something beneficial?” Blogger Andy Nieva meanwhile relayed, “When you see, read, and like the [Caltex FYS] projects on Facebook, you somehow turn a leisure [activity] into valuable support for the beneficiary children. In this little way, I fueled up the dreams of these students to become a reality.”

According to Olivia Dagdag, the principal of Camp Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo High School in Quezon City, “I set the direction of our school and that is to achieve our Caltex FYS project. Unity is the key to success. That is why I believe the Caltex FYS program became successful not only because of our school initiative, but also with the collaboration of the motorists, the community, and the private sector.” 

Raissa Bautista, manager for CPI’s Policy, Government, and Public Affairs, explained that the company believes that “Education is the greatest equalizer. The combination of quality school equipment provided by Caltex FYS, passionate teachers, and motivated students will make education a very powerful tool for economic growth and sustainability.” 

Caltex Fuel Your School is part of CPI’s Energy for Learning Initiative which supports educational programs that create opportunities for individuals to acquire new knowledge, gain new skills, and be exposed to different ways of thinking. To find out more about the STEM projects of the beneficiary schools, go to www.CaltexFuelYourSchoolPH.com.

Jardine showcases various home protection products at ICONEX 2015

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Jardine Distribution Inc. joins one of Iloilo City’s most popular construction expos, ICONEX 2015, last June 22 to 28 at SM City Iloilo.

Supporting the continuous growth of construction industry by participating in different expos across the country, Jardine Distribution Inc. (JDI) recently joined the Iloilo Construction Expo 2015 (ICONEX) from June 22 to 28 at SM City Iloilo.

Jardine Distribution Inc. receives a certificate of participation from one of Iloilo City’s most popular construction expos, ICONEX 2015, last June 22 to 28 at SM City Iloilo.

Now on its third year, Iconex is organized by a group of local architects and engineers to showcase different construction materials that ensure better and more durable houses for Filipino homeowners. The event likewise allows people engaged in the construction industry to connect with each other, opening doors of opportunity for them.

Through the years, Iloilo has witnessed quiet yet constant changes in its structure. The physical manifestations of these changes can be seen in different building and rebuilding construction works in the city. Positioning itself as one of the major cities in Visayas, Iloilo’s construction industry is booming resulting in the city’s economic growth.

JDI’s booth at the annual ICONEX construction draws scores of people, including architects, contractors, engineers, and homeowners. 

“We will never miss this one because Iloilo City is booming and we support the city all the way!” said Peachy Tiu, Marketing Manager “We are present in different construction expos to enlighten everyone on the latest trends in home protection. We innovate and add new products from time to time to offer better ways to protect our prized investment, which is our home.” 

During the expo, JDI highlighted its total waterproofing solutions just in time for the start of the rainy season. The company offers a wide array of home protection products such as Sureseal Elastomeric Sealant, Super Thoroseal, Optimum Flex, and Waterplug.

Jardine Distribution, Inc. (JDI) is engaged in the marketing and distribution of leading agricultural products, applied construction materials, and home pest solutions. Wholly owned by Jardine Matheson Holdings Limited, JDI operates within the framework of Hong Kong-based Jardine Engineering Corporation.

JDI, which joined the expo for the first time, highlighted its total waterproofing solutions just in time for the start of the rainy season.

For more information on Jardine Home Protection Products, visit http://jardinedistribution.com/. 

PLDT through PLDT SME Nation partner with Microsoft launched Digital Campus Suite

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The nation’s leading telecommunication and multi-media service provider Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT), through its business unit PLDT SME Nation, and partnered with Global IT giant Microsoft Philippines, had launched the "Digital Campus Suite" a new service package that will enable students, academe and even their parents access to online learning programs and to earn  Information Technology certification for critical IT skills that are now in demand in today’s digitally driven industries.

Through the Digital Campus Suite, schools and universities will have high-speed connectivity with PLDT myDSL Biz or iGate, an online access to training courses of the Microsoft IT Academy Program.

PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan

Last Wednesday, August 26, 2015, during the Digital Campus Suite launched held at the Makati Shangri-la Hotel, PLDT Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan shared “We at PLDT are confident that this partnership can significantly contribute to enriching the digital content of Philippine education. By enabling schools through these programs, we are helping them, both educator and student, to gain new critical skills and lean IT courses with globally competitive technology programs that have become essential in today’s digital workplace.”

Though the Digital Campus Suite, schools will have high-speed connectivity with PLDT myDSL Biz or iGate and online access to training courses of the Microsoft IT Academy Program. 

Schools will receive licenses to Microsoft Office 365 to help students and teachers interact and teach using Cloud tools and platforms.

Educators and students will have access to the digital curriculum and earn IT certifications in the Microsoft IT Academy Program for fundamental technology skills, as well as courses that enable students to become more competitive for employment.

The suite also includes laptops, tablets, and WiFi access points in campus to enhance the overall digital education experience.

PLDT SME Nation, Microsoft and COCOPEA have joined forces for a digital innovation that will help change the landscape of Philippine education. In photo, from left, are: PLDT EVP and ePLDT President and CEO Eric Alberto, PLDT Chairman Manny V. Pangilinan, COCOPEA Chair Bro. Jun Erguiza, FSC, Ed. D, Microsoft Philippines Country Manager Karrie Ilagan, PLDT President and CEO Napoleon L. Nazareno, PLDT SME Nation FVP and Head of SME Business Kat Luna-Abelarde and APAC Education Partner Director Rani Burchmore.

A study conducted by International Data Corporation (IDC) revealed that increased spending on IT cloud services will open up an estimated 14-million new jobs worldwide. The same report also noted that there was an apparent “widening ICT professional skills gap” and a “shortage of skills” in the Asia-Pacific region.

PLDT is very active in partnering with schools and learning institutions to built their technology and connectivity resources in support of the education sector’s need to improve ICT learning among the students and academe.

Kat Luna-Abelarde

PLDT FVP and head of SME Business Kat Luna-Abelarde said “This initiative fully aligns with PLDT SME Nation’s efforts to empower the future generation with an ICT-enabled education system. ICT skills are no longer just added value to employment but are now necessities in today’s business and entrepreneurial landscape.” 

“An educated population is what we need to build a progressive Philippine economy, but we can’t educate tomorrow’s leaders with tools from the past. The increasingly competitive workplace is being driven by technology and digital literacy, and the Digital Campus Suite gives educators and students access to tools that will build their capability to excel in that environment. Our partnership with PLDT SME Nation helps us create a bigger impact on all aspects of education,” said Microsoft Philippines General Manager Karrie Ilagan.

Photos: Arts & Travel Magazine

Scarvivors keep stories with hope and courage, not scars

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A scar is a permanent patch of skin that grows over a wound. It forms when your body heals itself after a cut, scrape, burn, or sore. Scars usually fade over time but never go away completely. Although scars are permanent, they can fade over a period of up to two years. It is unlikely they will fade any more after this time.

Scarring can be very distressing, can lead to feelings of depression and affecting their daily activities.

Scars may be a reminder of pain and personal tragedy. However, scars are also a sign of healing wounds. They are a testament to an individual’s courage and resilience. Scars mean closure on whatever pain and tragedy has happened, and it is something that can be visually improved as part of the healing process. 

Scarvivor, is an advocacy from the country’s leading scar management brand Contractubex (Extractum Cepae + Heparin + Allantoin), in support of the burn centers of the Philippines, and the Philippine Association of Plastic Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeons (PAPRAS) mission. As part of the advocacy, Contractubex proudly shares inspirational and life-changing stories from 6 courageous SCARvivors.

Nikoy de Guzman

“There were issues with those big scars, particularly after my first modified radical mastectomy when I was just 28. Then, I realized It’s about getting well. What you went through. And getting over that,” says Nikoy de Guzman, who has undergone a double mastectomy.

Sherilyn Bruan

“Hindi ka lang scarred physically. Pati yung self-esteem mo natamaan. Nung time na yun, I didn’t want people looking at my scars. Ngayon, I know there’s more about me than my scars,” shares Sherilyn Bruan, a survivor of the Ozone Disco fire.

Giboy Billena

“My scars are very big and my left leg was deformed. It was a very difficult experience, but with the help of many loving people especially my Mom and Dad, I am now on my road to complete recovery,” says Giboy Billena, a 13-year- old bone cancer survivor.

Rubylyn Cua Rodel

“Dahil sa scars, dati binubully ako. Sinusulatan yung libro ko ng sunog. Ganun. Pero hindi ko hinayaang masira ang buhay ko,” says Rubylyn Cua Rodel, who got burned in an accident.

Dwight Bayona

“My experience has been a painful struggle. But I didn’t let it hinder me from doing the things I wanted to do. I want others to know that you can be so much more than your scars. Just trust yourself and your will to fight,” shares Dwight Bayona, a racer who lost his leg in an accident. 

Richard Tagapan

“Ang mahalaga, muli akong makabalik sa aking tungkulin. Dala ng paninilbihan ang sugat na ito, nagbibigay sa akin ng lakas ng loob,” according to Richard Tagapan, a PNP SAF officer injured in the line of duty.

The Scarvivors event press launch on August 27, 2015, 10 am at Amici Restaurant, features talks from Dr Jose Joven Cruz, President of PAPRAS; Dr. Dorothy Dy Ching Bing, Burn Rehabilitation Consultant on burn centers in the Philippines; and Nikoy De Guzman, one of the SCARvivors, for the closing remarks. 

The SCARvivor exhibit at Exhibit Space 3, UGF Building A, SM Megamall runs from August 27, 2015 to September 2, 2015. 

We encourage you to be part of the advocacy by visiting the exhibit and extending your support to other SCARvivors out there.

You can also support the SCARvivor advocacy by purchasing Contractubex. For every Contractubex purchased, patients from selected burn centers will be given their own SCARvivor Kit. This is in line with the commitment of Contractubex to helping patients manage scars, so that someday, being SCARvivors themselves, only their stories of hope and courage remain.

Photos: Arts & Travel Magazine

MIIS students win top prize at the International Science Enterprise Challenge

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(From left) Miranda Bernadette Panaguiton, Alannah Kirsten Mitra, Sabine Chiongbian, Mathena Rain Rodas, Gianina Marie Gabrielle Reyes, Francine Mae Mamba, and Glenn Angelo Joven

High school students from the Multiple Intelligence International School (MIIS) bagged the top prize at the International Science Enterprise Challenge (ISEC) 2015 held recently, besting other schools from Singapore, Japan, Russia, Guam, Indonesia, Mongolia, Thailand, and Turkey. Kaisei High School in Japan was second place

The MIIS students who competed were Sabine Chiongbian, Glenn Angelo Joven, Francine Mae Mamba, Alannah Kirsten Mitra, Miranda Bernadette Panaguiton, Gianina Marie Gabrielle Reyes, and Mathena Rain Rodas.

A 24-hour competition for high school students from all over the world, ISEC challenges the participants’ knowledge and skills in both science and business to come up with a sustainable solution to a particular problem. The challenge is announced the same day to teams composed of three to nine members. Within 24 hours, the students have to come up with prototype, a business plan and a 3-minute video to be presented to an international board of judges. The Surya Institute and United in Diversity in Indonesia, together with the Young Entrepreneur Center in Singapore, started ISEC (then called ASEAN Science Enterprise Challenge) in 2009.

The MI students with their winning entry BioBox. (From left) Miranda Bernadette Panaguiton, Gianina Marie Gabrielle Reyes, Glenn Angelo Joven, Sabine Chiongbian, Mathena Rain Rodas, Francine Mae Mamba, and Alannah Kirsten Mitra.

For their winning entry, the MIIS students submitted a BioBox, which provides an easy, efficient way to conserve and save water, money and space. It utilizes and combines the concepts of vertical farming, terrariums, dome collectors, and water tables. Terrariums simulate the water cycle, thus making it a self-sufficient ecosystem that recycles and reuses water as well. Dome collectors gather and store rainwater for uses such as drinking, bathing, washing, watering, and the likes. Water tables collect excess water that seeps into the ground from rain and runoff. By combining all these concepts together, BioBox creates an efficient use of water while creating an organic, natural, and eco-friendly way to farm. Some crops that can be farmed in the BioBox are cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, garden cress, bok choy, brocolli, brussel sprouts, and similar green leafy vegetables.

“We are thankful and very proud of our students for bringing another honor to MIIS. This is truly a testament to what the MI school has been initiating to help prepare Filipino kids to be globally competitive and future ready. By using their multiple intelligences, our youth indeed has what it takes to engage the international community with their innovative, creative, and socially relevant ideas,” says Joy Canon-Abaquin, Founding Directress of the Multiple Intelligence International School.

Early this year, MIIS won Global 3rd place in the 14th Global Enterprise Challenge. The MIIS team competed against 28 teams from 13 countries from the US, Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific.