ARISE PH announces first Board of Directors, 2021 agenda: SM Prime’s Hans Sy encourages members to make DRR their advocacy

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ARISE Philippines convened and announced its first batch of Board of Directors in a virtual meeting held last Friday. The new and pioneering Board exchanged ideas and further discussed the next steps of the organization to formally set in motion the Alliance’s initial and forthcoming activities to achieve its goal of a disaster-resilient Philippines. 

Challenge accepted! ARISE (Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies) PH Board of Directors convenes for the first ARISE PH Virtual Board Meeting this year. In the photo, from upper left, are Liza Silerio, PH Representative, ARISE Global; Kenneth Hartigan-Go, MD, MD (UK) School Head, Asian Institute of Management; Antonia Yulo Loyzaga, President, National Resilience Council; VAdm Alexander P. Pama AFP (ret), Consultant for Disaster Resilience, SM Prime Holdings Inc.; Ed Sunico, Vice President, Unilever Philippines; Dr. Erdsan Rene S. Suero, DPA, National President, Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers, Inc.; Raymond Rufino, Chief Executive Officer, NEO; Hans T. Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee, SM Prime Holdings Inc.; Rene Meily, President, Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF); Ma. Teresita Medado, PhD, President, Asia Pacific College; Alex B. Cabrera, Chairman and Senior Partner, PwC Philippines; and, Maribeth Marasigan, President and Chief Operating Officer, Aboitiz Foundation.

ARISE (Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies) Philippines is a local network of the Global ARISE network, led by the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) where companies from the private sector are enabled to build and develop strategies to make their companies and its constituents resilient to disaster risk. The network supports the UN Office for Disaster Reduction (UNDRR) in its effort to pursue the Sendai Framework for Action for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-20130, a UN endorsed International agreement aimed to achieve “The substantial reduction of disaster risk and losses in lives, livelihoods and health and in the economic, physical, social, cultural and environmental assets of persons, businesses, communities and countries”.

The Board of Directors is composed of exemplary men and women who are top leaders from various private sector member companies and organizations with the passion and purpose and commitment to make the Philippines a more sustainable and resilient nation through engaging and energizing the private sector in activities that are aligned with ARISE’s goals. The newly elected directors are:

● Hans T. Sy, Board Member and, Co-Chair, Chairman of the Executive Committee, SM Prime Holdings Inc. 

● VAdm Alexander P. Pama AFP (ret), Board Member and Co-Chair, Consultant for Disaster Resilience, SM Prime Holdings Inc. 

● Alex B. Cabrera, Board Member and Vice-Chair, Chairman and Senior Partner, PwC Philippines 

● Ma. Teresita Medado, PhD, Board Member and Treasurer, Asia Pacific College, President

● Maribeth Marasigan, Board Member, President and Chief Operating Officer, Aboitiz Foundation

● Kenneth Y. Hartigan-Go, MD, MD (UK), Board Member, School Head, Asian Institute of Management

● Raymond Rufino, Board Member, Chief Executive Officer, NEO

● Rene “Butch” Meily, Board Member, President, Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation (PDRF)

● Ed Sunico, Board Member, Vice President, Unilever Philippines

● Antonia Yulo Loyzaga, Board Member, President, National Resilience Council

● Dr. Erdsan Rene S. Suero, DPA, Board Member, National President, Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers, Inc

In his welcoming remarks, Former ARISE Global Board Member and ARISE PH Co-Chair, Mr. Hans T. Sy persuaded the board to make institutionalization of disaster risk reduction as a business strategy an important part of the organization’s advocacy. 

“Consider that your election to the ARISE Board means that you are part of the integral and growing worldwide movement. As a member, you will have first-hand access to the current life-saving and critical knowledge in DRR methodologies. You’ll be able to strengthen your own company’s DRR using the network that welcomes you with open arms and you will share your programs to help others in return. We can’t predict a crisis or disaster but we can better prepare, and I am sure you will all agree with me that DRR as a good business strategy should be our advocacy,” he said.

During the meeting, VAdm Alexander P. Pama AFP (ret), Board Member and Co-Chair, laid down the organization’s initial plans in response to the COVID-19 crisis in the country. He noted that the organization will likewise have to undertake a significant paradigm shift in order to achieve its vision and mission given that the pandemic has fundamentally upended the nature of the corresponding DRR models.

“We have initially lined up activities to be undertaken in order for ARISE Philippines to rise up to the occasion and immediately address the needs to re-energize the private sector for the attainment of our vision of a disaster-resilient and prosperous country and society,” Vice Admiral Pama shared.

The initial plans include the Annual General Membership Meeting 2020; Review and Reassessment of Arise Philippines Goals and Objectives with the ARISE Four (4) Priority Areas such as integrating DRR into the financial sector decision making, building the resilience of SMEs, resilient infrastructure, and the role of insurance in DRR and resilience; Setting up KPIs and Target Accomplishments; and, Work Plan for 2020-2023 as the main activity references and drivers. These plans will be further discussed and fine-tuned by the members in the coming days. 

ARISE Vice Chair Alex Cabrera noted that the pandemic is a sufficient motivation for the Board to succeed in its goals. “Our job today is pretty much cut out in building a resilient business community and resilient society… I will be very interested to work on what kind of partnerships we can do with the public sector as well and how can we improve the quality of intervention of the public sector in helping ARISE achieve its purpose as an organization,” Cabrera added.

PDRF’s President and ARISE Board Member Butch Meily, on the other hand, encouraged all the members to stand united in boosting their DRR efforts amid the crisis. “If there's one thing that we've learned in this pandemic is that we all have to work together… Unless we are all safe, no one is safe, and I think it's time for the ARISE Board to come together,” he told the members. 

Ms. Toni Loyzaga, National Resilience Council President and ARISE Board Member for her part said that, “We (at the NRC) look forward to even close collaboration with ARISE Philippines as it steers the course (of) this country for evidence-based private sector partnerships in pursuit of DRR and resilience development.”

Meanwhile, PH representative to the ARISE Global Board, Liza Silerio lauded the members’ selfless service and commitment in the acceptance of this critical position.  “It (election of local board) proves that the Philippine Private Sector is united in its strong desire to make a mark in the country’s Disaster Risk Reduction. This coming together of diverse private sector groups manifested a mutually energized partnership and convergence,” Silerio said.

To know more about ARISE Philippines, you may contact its secretariat through arisephilippines@smprime.com or visit  https://cc.preventionweb.net/arise/asia_pacific/arise_philippines

Content Revolution disrupts Creative Economy & Pop Culture: How and Why it starts on TikTok

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TikTok launches in the Philippines its latest campaign, “it starts on TikTok”, to celebrate the creators, community and culture on the platform that brought positivity and joy to life. The campaign is part of TikTok’s largest-ever global branding campaign that kicked off on August 18, 2020.

Since TikTok’s launch, the platform has revolutionized content creation, laying the foundations for the rise of a new generation of creators that impacted pop culture and drove the country’s creative economy.

“Everyone is a creator. Everyday, we create moments and shared experiences. These little moments are the ripples that are now making waves to our culture today. TikTok is a platform to capture, amplify, and magnify the unique and creative you,” says John Castro, User and Content Operations Manager, TikTok Philippines.

Behind every viral video and top trend is a creator who brought a creation to life. As an idea catches on, so too does its impact across borders, cultures, languages, and communities. What begins as seconds of authentic creativity often turns into much more: careers blossom, memes develop, hobbies flourish, communities coalesce, and viral songs climb to the top of music charts. TikTok is a platform that brings joy and enriches your life.

TikTok’s content, creativity, and creator-centric model, places every TikToker on a level playing field. Everyone has a chance to go viral as seen in the case of Tala that made TikTok a platform where the turning point to virality starts and happens.

Charting the Origin of Tala

Who would have thought a song that was released in January 2016 would make a comeback to become the Philippines’ 2020 pop culture anthem?

Since the launch of Sarah Geronimo’s Tala, the song has been building up its momentum over the years. With its catchy lyrics and danceable choreography, it has always been a part of Filipino pop culture, especially in the LGBTIQ+ community. But come November 2019, the dance covers spread like wildfire until it saw the resurgence as the nation's newest dance craze.

One of the earliest uploads of the song on TikTok is from user Glyds Soriano on November 26, 2019, which was basically a snippet from the original music video. Since then, TikTokers have been using the song for their own #talachallenge dance covers. 

Joining the challenge on December 27, 2019 , teen celebrity Vivoree also uploaded her own edit of the song which was eventually used by phenomenal star Maine Mendoza and commendable actor Arjo Atayde in the video that truly cemented Tala’s virality. To date, Maine and Arjo’s video remains as the top viewed content for the #talachallenge at 12.4M views. 

Tala - Sarah Geronimo officially became part of TikTok’s music library in January 2020.

https://www.tiktok.com/@mainemendozaaa03/video/6778023462146542850 

Creative Journeys that starts on TikTok

For many creators in the Philippines and around the world, this online haven is TikTok. The community built on the platform is one that celebrates individuality, while embracing diversity. Its culture of inclusion has created an environment that welcomes everyone, regardless of race, gender or age. It truly is the platform for all.

"TikTok will welcome you for who you are." says veteran Filipino actress, Gina Pareno, also known online as Lola Gets. She proves that age is just a number on TikTok. She is currently thriving as a content creator, with over 900k followers and counting. She started posting on the platform after seeing her granddaughter making TikTok videos. Since then, her posts have been able to bring so much happiness to fans and followers. 

[Gina’s Interview)

“Whatever your passion may be, there is a place for you on TikTok. On this platform, you can showcase your talents for everyone to see,” says creator Yanyan de Jesus. He encourages everyone to not be afraid to show themselves, and being authentic is a formula that worked for Yanyan. In turn, he is fully welcomed by the community with 9.5M followers. 

[Yanyan’s Interview]

On TikTok, you have a positive community that supports your passion and loves your authentic self. As viral Filipino creator, Zendee, says, “It [the TikTok community] is like a family who supports what you want to do in life...It is really a big family!” Zendee herself became known for her parodies, and her followers love her for the sassy singer that she is. 

[Zendee’s Interview]

This freedom to create has resulted in an influx of countless online trends, all of which started on TikTok. And it isn’t just the creators who make these viral. The entire community plays a part in it, too. 

“We wanted to celebrate the community and the creators who have made TikTok part of Filipino culture. For the rest of our users and creators, this is just the beginning. Your creative journey starts on TikTok,” says Castro.

From the #talachallenge to #savagelove, when you ride TikTok trends and take on hashtag challenges, you contribute to making the next viral trend on the app, and beyond. Together, the TikTok community has made an impact on culture and society, here and abroad, through the trends, viral videos, and creative content that started on the platform. 

No matter what you have and who you are, TikTok welcomes you to join and share your creative ideas. Download TikTok today on your iOS and Android devices and start your TikTok moment with #itstartsonTikTok and #TikTokPhilippines.

Las Piñas school heads initiate voluntary drive to support World Vision’s Abutin Na10

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A week after the launch of World Vision’s Abutin Na10 (to be read as ‘na-ten’) campaign, DepEd Las Piñas initiated a city-wide advocacy drive among its stakeholders to support the country’s Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan. 

“We are a family under one country so we ought to be compassionate for others who are in need, especially the most vulnerable children,” said Dr. Joel Torrecampo, Superintendent of the Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division Office of Las Piñas City.

Dr. Torrecampo, known by his colleagues to be hands-on and tech-savvy, immediately posted an appeal to his social media groups followed mostly by his fellow DepEd officials and school heads. He led a simple voluntary ‘pass the hat’ initiative to help last-mile learners cope with the impact of COVID-19.

Turnover of Abutin Na10 donation: Las Piñas City Schools Division Office Superintendent Dr. Joel T. Torrecampo, DepEd Undersecretary for Legislative Liaison Office, External Partnerships Service and Project Management Service, Atty. Tonisito M.C. Umali, Esq., World Vision Education Manager Geomel P. Jetonzo, and Pulang Lupa Elementary School Principal III Dr. Aileen O. Ballaran

In less than two weeks, they were able to raise Php 70,000, which they turned over to World Vision Education Manager Geomel P. Jetonzo and DepEd Undersecretary for Legislative Liaison Office, External Partnerships Service and Project Management Service, Atty. Tonisito M.C. Umali, Esq.

In a recent return of blessing to the school division’s initiative, the local government of Las Piñas recently confirmed the provision of educational equipment, gadgets and hygiene kits to be used by its teachers and students while in the new normal.

“I believe it is our collective resolve here in Las Piñas City, our students and their parents, teachers and principals, together with our local government, to be of humble service to those in dire need, so our children will be able to reach their dreams, and not stop schooling because of this pandemic,” shared Dr. Torrecampo, who in his younger years endured walking several kilometres just to attend and eventually finish school. Believing that this pandemic has opened a horizon of generosity, he decided to support schools of other provinces through the Abutin Na10 fund drive. 

World Vision Philippines National Director Rommel V. Fuerte shared that “our rapid impact assessment reveals that one of the top most critical problems faced by children and their parents during the COVID-19 pandemic is education opportunities, aside from food security and access to health care.”

Of the children respondents, 21% said they are either unwilling or unsure to attend school (face-to-face or blended learning) when classes start this August. The other 89% of those surveyed anticipate challenges on the use of online learning platforms while 38% do not have access to internet. Their parents share the same sentiments including the absence of gadgets.

It is because of these challenges and many others that World Vision Philippines and the Department of Education partnered for Abutin Na10: Para sa Sampung Milyong Mag-aaral, Sampung Piso, Sampung Araw, Sampung Milyong Pilipino. 

““With millions of Filipinos taking part in this endeavor, last-mile learners can continue their education while ensuring that their lives are not at risk due to COVID-19,” Fuerte shared. He explained that the funds will be used by DepEd for the printing of self-learning materials and/or procurement of gadgets to support the children’s blended or distance learning from home.

During the campaign launch Abutin Na10, no less than the DepEd Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones commended this worthy effort and asserted that “education must continue with or without the threat of the COVID-19 because it is perhaps the greatest legacy we can leave our learners and our children.” The education chief also said that we should ensure that "the health, safety and well-being of learners, teachers and personnel are protected.”

To support Abutin Na10, visit worldvision.org.ph/abutin-na10/ and facebook.com/AbutinNa10.

Gretchen Ho inspires young girls to dream big through World Vision’s 1,000 Girls campaign

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Gretchen Ho is the official ambassador in the Philippines for World Vision’s campaign, “1,000 Girls”. This year’s theme is “#GirlsCan”. By focusing on issues faced by young girls today due to the on-going pandemic, the challenge is to respond to their most urgent needs to help realize their full potential and have a better future. 

Gretchen’s support for this campaign is rooted on her belief that every girl has the capacity to be empowered and to overcome, but she also acknowledged the importance of support from family and friends. “It isn’t always easy to fight on your own. That’s why we need to provide them with support, guidance, resources and opportunities to be able to maximize their potential. Many girls are at a disadvantage because of their economic background or family set-ups. Sometimes, the only thing that a girl needs is a helping hand,” said Gretchen.

Through World Vision’s child sponsorship program, these young girls will have access to learning and development opportunities that are sustainable, community-driven, and long-term solutions. 

Gretchen sees education as one of the best ways to equip the youth. “Through education, a world of opportunities opens up for a young girl. If that young girl is able to build her self-confidence through those opportunities, there is potential to become a leader,” explained Gretchen. “In today’s world, where there is so much injustice, inequality, hatred and discrimination, we need the strengths of a female to overcome. We need more female voices to be heard”.

World Vision partners with different stakeholders including the local community to build resilient families and create an enabling environment for the children. By allowing them to have access to education, nutritious food, and clean water, to enjoy quality health services, and to participate in spiritual nurture activities, these young girls are being empowered so they too can one day be agents of change.

“World Vision is excited to share with everyone an opportunity to help children meet their needs. The 1000 Girls campaign is one that highlights empowerment for education, health and protection. Your support will give hope to every child especially during this time,” said Rommel Fuerte, World Vision’s National Director.

“My message to all the young girls out there is — I believe you can make it. Don’t be afraid to dream big. Make the most out of what you have. If you have less in life, ask for help. If you have more in life, help others. There is room for success for everyone. Believe in yourself, be resourceful, be creative and you will conquer,” shared Gretchen. 

To know how you can support “1,000 Girls” by sponsoring a girl today, visit https://www.worldvision.org.ph/1000girls/. You may also follow /worldvisionph on Facebook and @worldvisionphl on Instagram for updates. 

About World Vision 

World Vision is a global Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. 

PLDT-Smart Foundation tops up educational grant for PNP dependents

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Dependents of Filipino police officers killed or injured in service receive a P1-million educational grant from PLDT-Smart Foundation, now on its 12^th year, with the aim of providing college educational opportunities. The PSF has so far produced 639 scholars through the Educational Assistance Program. 

  

"Education is an integral part of our efforts in the PLDT-Smart Foundation. We continue to do our part in the community to ensure that we provide adequate resources to support today's youth as they become our next generation of leaders,” said PLDT Chairman and CEO Manuel V Pangilinan who is also the Chairman of the PLDT-Smart Foundation.  

  

In line with the Philippine National Police (PNP) Integrated Transformation Program, the PSF Educational Assistance Program aims to provide college educational opportunities to the dependents of PNP uniformed personnel, with highest priority to those who are sons/daughters of personnel who were killed in actual performance of duty (KIA), complete disability discharged (CDD) wounded or incapacitated in line of duty and those dependents who graduated with honors.  

  

"In PLDT and Smart, we appreciate and we are extremely grateful for the heroic efforts that our police force has done through the years. Even now, amid the pandemic, they serve our country and the Filipino people by ensuring our safety and protection,” said Smart President & CEO and PLDT Chief Revenue Officer Al Panlilio.   

  

Every year, a total of 50 dependents are selected by the PNP to benefit from this scholarship assistance. The annual grant of the PSF to the PNP is P500,000. Last year, the MVP Golf Cup led by PLDT Enterprise partnered with the PSF as its beneficiary for the mulligan donation. PLDT Enterprise matched the annual grant of the PSF, amounting to a total of P1-million educational grant for 2020.   

  

“Some of the most heartwarming stories I have ever heard are from the children of our PNP heroes. These are stories of loss, grief, hope and healing. We want to continue the legacy of these brave men and women by empowering their sons and daughters to have the best opportunities. In the PLDT-Smart Foundation, we become enablers of dreams and countless possibilities,” said PLDT-Smart Foundation President Esther Santos. 

  

Empowering the youth 

  

20-year-old Jhosan Michelle Roy is one of this year’s beneficiaries of the educational grant. She is currently a third year college student, taking up BS Psychology in the Polytechnic University of the Philippines Main Campus. Roy dreams to be a clinical psychologist someday while running her own business.  

  

“Malaking bagay po ang tulong na ibinigay sa akin ng PLDT-Smart Foundation. I’m sure na ‘yung papa ko po ay masaya ngayon dahil patuloy kong inaabot ang mga pangarap ko. Thank you, PLDT-Smart Foundation. Mabuhay po kayo,” said Roy.  

  

Over the last twelve years, the PSF has honored the sacrifices of our nation’s public servants – the brave women and men of the Philippine National Police. Through the years, the grant was able to make a big difference in the lives of beneficiaries and uplifted the morale of the entire police force.