Chevron Renews Partnership with Edukasyon.ph to Offer Training and Employment Support for Scholars in Cloud Computing through AWS re/Start program

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Chevron Philippines Inc (CPI), marketer of the Caltex brand of fuel and lubricants, has signed a partnership once again with Edukasyon.ph to offer cloud computing training and employment support for disadvantaged individuals through the AWS re/Start program.

Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI) has renewed its partnership with Edukasyon.PH to offer training and employment assistance to underserved individuals through the AWS re/Start program. (From left to right: Jason Gaisono, Board Member at Edukasyon.ph, Sophia Isabelle C. Fontanilla, Board Member at Edukasyon.ph, Raissa Bautista, Corporate Affairs Manager CPI, and Joel Gaviola, Corporate Affairs Advisor CPI.)

The collaboration between Chevron and Edukasyon.ph underscored their shared commitment to the educational development of underserved individuals.

Forty-eight scholars graduated from the last batch of Amazon Web Services (AWS) re/Start program in the high-growth field of cloud computing. These scholars completed the program with distinction and acquired valuable technical skills in designing, managing, and optimizing cloud infrastructures, which are increasingly in demand. For the second batch, Edukasyon.ph aims to enroll 50 students in the program supported by Chevron Philippines.

Cloud computing has become a vital component for businesses of all sizes, leading to increased demand in the tech industry. Enhancing the skills of professionals in this field is essential to ensure that Filipinos, both in the Philippines and around the world, develop the specialized knowledge and expertise required.

AWS re/Start is a cohort-based workforce development training program designed to prepare individuals for careers in the cloud and connect them with potential employers. No prior technology experience is required to apply. The program is free for participants and specifically aims to assist unemployed or underemployed individuals in launching new careers

With guidance from professional mentors and accredited instructors, participants gain a strong foundation in cloud computing that prepares them for entry-level cloud jobs. The training covers essential programming, networking, security, and relational database skills through real-world scenarios, hands-on labs, and coursework. Graduates from collaborating organization possess not only technical skills but also professional competencies, and they have earned an AWS Certification, a recognized credential that validates their cloud computing expertise.

“We are very grateful to Chevron Philippines for their continued support. Programs like this are quite costly, and their external support allows us to develop additional cohorts, enabling more students to participate and benefit from upskilling opportunities. We are also thrilled to have the opportunity to renew our partnership with Chevron,” said Sophia Fontanilla, Board member of Edukasyon.ph

Edukasyon.ph and Chevron Philippines executives during the MOU signing 

Chevron and Edukasyon.ph executives pose for a group photo in front of Chevron’s photo wall.

“Reflecting on the success of last year’s cohort, we at Chevron Philippines firmly believe that cloud computing is crucial for shaping the future for aspiring Filipino professionals. We are deeply committed to supporting education and improving livelihoods for disadvantaged groups. We also extend our gratitude to Edukasyon.ph for this partnership, which will help us upskill more individuals.” said Raissa Bautista, CPI Corporate Affairs Manager.

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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.

Incognito Live in Manila

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Fans of the British acid jazz band, Incognito, are in for a treat as the group is set to perform live in Manila for the first time again after 10 years, on November 10, 2024, at the New Frontier Theater.

The group is known for their smooth blend of jazz, funk, and soulful sound as their signature style. Their debut album, Jazz Funk, was released in 1981. Jean-Paul “Bluey” Maunick is the band’s leader, singer, guitarist, composer, and record producer. The band has included Linda Muriel, Jocelyn Brown, Maysa Leak, Tony Momrelle, Imaani, Venessa Haynes, Mo Brandis, Natalie Williams, Carleen Anderson, Pamela (PY) Anderson, Kelli Sae, and Joy Malcolm.

With "Always There," Incognito achieved their first significant breakthrough and a number six smash in the UK charts in 1991. Additionally, the group has placed 13 albums in the Top 10 on Billboard's Jazz albums chart since "Tribes Vibes and Scribes" in 1992.

The upcoming concert in Manila is expected to be a memorable experience for fans, as they will have the opportunity to witness the Incognito’s incredible talent and musicianship up close, presented by Ovation Productions with Blast TV as the official media partner. Tickets will be available at ticketnet.com.ph.

For more details and updates about the concert please check the official website and Facebook Page of Ovation Productions at https://ovation.ph/ and https://www.facebook.com/ovationproductions/ .

Visit: 

FACEBOOK: @ovationproductions

TWITTER: @ovationprod

INSTAGRAM: @ovationprod

#OvationProductions

#IncognitoLiveInManila

Empowering Communities, Awarding Success: MMDA and Coca-Cola Recognize Metro Manila’s Top Barangays for Recycling Achievements

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The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc. (CCBPI) recently hosted the awarding ceremony for the "Tapon to Ipon: Basta Klaro, Panalo! Barangay Contest" at the MMDA Arena. The event marked the culmination of a four-month initiative that encouraged barangays to actively collect and recycle the most clear PET plastic bottles, Coca-Cola returnable glass bottles (RGBs) and crates, as part of a broader effort to promote environmental sustainability and responsible waste management.

The Tapon to Ipon initiative, which integrates CCBPI’s "Tapon to Ipon: Basta Klaro, Panalo!" program with the MMDA’s Mobile Materials Recovery Facility (MMRF) project, has been instrumental in engaging communities in resource recovery and waste reduction. Twenty-one (21) barangays participated in the contest, which ran from April to July 31, 2024, with the top-performing barangays being recognized and rewarded for their efforts.

Each of the barangays exchanged clear PET bottles and Coca-Cola returnable glass bottles as well as small and big crates, with assigned equivalent points for Coca-Cola products.

Top Barangays and Impact on Community

The top barangays, which demonstrated exceptional commitment to the cause, were led by Barangay Pinagsama of Taguig City winning the top prize, Barangay Tejeros of Makati coming in at second place, and Barangay Bayanan of Muntinlupa City securing third place. Barangay Tatalon of Quezon City was honored as fourth place, and Barangay Batis of San Juan City claimed fifth place. Certificates of Participation were given to the remaining barangays who participated in the collaboration.

These barangays collectively contributed to the collection of over 10,000 kilograms of clear PET bottles, more than 480 pieces Coca-Cola crates, and over 16,000 pieces of Coca-Cola returnable glass bottles. The collected materials were then exchanged for Coca-Cola products, further incentivizing the residents to participate actively in the program. The goal is for all collected clear PET bottles to be brought to PETValue Philippines, the country’s pioneering bottle-to-bottle recycling facility, giving limitless lives by turning the bottles into new food-grade recycled PET (rPET) bottles.

The top three barangays were awarded significant funding to further support their sustainability initiatives, focused on waste recovery and recycling. These funds will be used for resources and materials to develop and implement programs that will continue to promote responsible waste management within their communities. The initiative not only highlights the importance of environmental stewardship but also empowers communities to take concrete steps towards sustainability.

Barangay Chairperson Hon. Maria Victoria Mortel-Balidoy of Brgy. Pinagsama, Taguig City, acknowledged the positive impact of the program on reducing waste in their waterways, saying, “While flooding remains a concern in our community, the Tapon to Ipon initiative has significantly reduced the accumulation of PET bottles and other recyclables in our waterways. Through this program, our residents have learned to see value in collecting these items for incentives, instead of disposing of them improperly. This has greatly lessened the amount of waste contributing to blockages. With continued efforts, we hope to further reduce flooding risks as we strengthen our waste management practices at the barangay level and spread awareness throughout the community. The key to lasting change is in creating a culture of recycling, and we are committed to making this a permanent part of our daily lives.”

Partnership for a Cleaner Future

“The Tapon to Ipon initiative not only reduces plastic waste but also empowers communities by showing them that small actions can lead to significant change. By participating in this program, barangays are not just contributing to a cleaner environment but also setting a positive example for other communities to follow. This is how we build a culture of sustainability, one bottle at a time,” said MMDA Chairman Romando Artes.

MMDA Solid Waste Management Office Director Josias E. Syquimsiam Jr., emphasized the success of the initiative and how it paves the way for a more proactive community, saying "The Tapon to Ipon Barangay Contest has been a very successful initiative to promote collection of clear PET bottles and RGBs for recycling with the support of the Mobile Materials Recovery Facility of the MMDA. This Barangay Contest has shown us the power of community engagement in addressing the issue of plastic waste. By incentivizing recycling, we’ve been able to make a significant impact on waste reduction and foster a culture of environmental responsibility. We are confident that this is not the end of our initiative, but a start to an even cleaner Metro Manila."

Atty. Juan Lorenzo Tañada, VP for Corporate and Regulatory Affairs of CCBPI added, "This partnership with the MMDA is truly significant, as we strive to help clear our waterways to prevent flooding, especially during typhoons. Our collaboration perfectly aligns with our commitment to foster cleaner communities and a better future for all, by making collection and recycling systems more accessible. Getting over 20 barangays together to join and participate is really a big deal for us and we are very happy with the outcome of the collective effort of all the barangays. We are proud partners of the MMDA, and we look forward to continuing this engagement as a long-term initiative."

Future Initiatives

The MMDA and CCBPI plan to build on the success of this initiative by expanding the Tapon to Ipon program to more barangays in Metro Manila. Future collaborations will include more sustainability-focused initiatives and community engagement activities aimed at reinforcing the importance of recycling and proper waste management.

The event closed with an awarding ceremony, photo opportunities, and a commitment from all stakeholders to continue working together to promote a cleaner and greener Metro Manila.

Enjoy early access to great October deals on OPPO’s 10.10 Sale

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Ready for a deal that’s a perfect 10? OPPO’s 10.10 Sale is just around the corner with massive discounts, vouchers, and exciting freebies.

This time around, OPPO is kicking off its 10.10 Sale early! From October 8 to 12, enjoy up to 60% off on your favorite OPPO devices, plus exclusive vouchers and exciting freebies on OPPO’s official Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok channels. Whether you're upgrading your smartphone, grabbing a new tablet, or stocking up on accessories, now’s the perfect time to score the OPPO A18, OPPO A58, OPPO A60, and more.

Start your Shopping Early and Score Perfect Deals

Save up as you get a headstart in your holiday shopping as OPPO is giving away discount vouchers for your next OPPO device. You can enjoy All-Day Vouchers, starting at Php 300 off with a minimum spend of Php 8,999, Php 400 off with a minimum spend of Php 13,999, and Php 1,000 off with a minimum spend of Php 24,999. A Livestream Voucher worth Php 100 is also up for grabs for a minimum purchase of Php 4,899.

Shopee and Lazada shoppers can grab a Php 50 Free Shipping Voucher with a minimum spend of Php 500. Shopee users can also score a 15% off voucher with a minimum spend of Php 4,000, capped at Php 1,200. On top of that, a voucher of Php 200 off a minimum spend of Php 4,999 is also available via Shopee which can be redeemed by using the special code “OPPOTEN1” upon checkout.

Flexible payment options are also available to make your 10.10 shopping experience even better! Lazada shoppers can up to 0% interest installment for 45 days storewide via LazPayLater, while Shopee customers can benefit from up to 0% interest on selected OPPO smartphones via SPayLater.

Enjoy a Bunch of Freebies!

The excitement of the OPPO 10.10 Sale doesn’t just end with awesome discounts! You can score exclusive freebies when you buy the following devices:

●     Free MH320 Earphones for all OPPO A38, OPPO A60, and OPPO A78  purchases

●     Free Pearl Case and OPPO Enco Air2 for all OPPO Find N3 Flip purchases

●   Free K8A Bluetooth Speakers for all OPPO A3, OPPO A98, OPPO Reno11 Pro 5G, OPPO Reno11 F 5G, OPPO Reno12 F 5G, and OPPO Reno12 Series 5G purchases

●     Free OPPO Enco Buds2 for all OPPO Pad Neo WiFi/LTE purchases

Get ready to snag unbeatable deals on the latest OPPO smartphones and gadgets and make the most out of your October shopping experience! For more details on OPPO's 10.10 Sale, you can visit OPPO Philippines’ official website or Facebook page.

To get the best care for your OPPO devices, visit your nearest OPPO Care Center or contact us on our website, via Facebook.

A Showdown to Remember: Red Bull Dance Your Style Spotlights Top Filipino Dance Talents, Names Klockwise as National Champion

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Christopher Sy / Red Bull Content Pool

Manila, Philippines — The energy was electric as the nation’s top dancers gathered to compete in the highly anticipated Red Bull Dance Your Style Philippines National Finals. This year’s competition, which took place at the Kilometer Zero - Rizal Park in Luneta last September 28, was a thrilling spectacle of talent, skill, and passion that left the crowd at the edge of their seats. 

Red Bull Dance Your Style is a renowned global 1-on-1 street dance competition where dancers show off their freestyle and improvisation skills. Unlike typical dance competitions where a panel of judges is present, with Red Bull Dance Your Style, the audience wields the power to decide the winner. This makes for a more intense dance battle, where dancers unleash their prowess to captivate the audience.

Following a successful series of regional qualifiers, the Red Bull Dance Your Style Philippines National Finals brought together 16 crème de la crème of dance talents from all over the country. The competition was fierce, with each dancer pushing the boundaries of talent and creativity. 

After several rounds of intense battles, it was down to the top 4 finalists: Klockwise, MSTR PIECE, JXYB, and Nemesis to compete for the top spot. In the end, it was locking master Klockwise (Kenneth Martinez), who emerged victorious. He danced his way to the top, captivating the audience throughout the competition. He masterfully injected theatricality with his “campbellock” or “locking” freestyle performances, showcasing a masterclass in style and skill, earning him the well-deserved trophy and a ticket to the World Finals as the exclusive representative of the Philippines.

“I’m so happy,” said the elated National Champion of his win. “I’ve gone through a lot from the Manila qualifiers, to the finals. I’m so grateful that I got to experience this. Thank you, Red Bull. Thank you to the whole dance community.”

Hailing from Valenzuela, Klockwise has continuously honed his craft with unlimited determination through countless rehearsals and competitions, always pushing to grow his talent and learn new skills.

Christopher Sy / Red Bull Content Pool

Klockwise disclosed that his personal competition highlight was his battle round with Ponla during the Top 8 battle round. He said, “That time, I felt lighter and my nerves were calmer because it was already the middle of the competition.”

He added, “I was getting fired up. I could hear the music so clearly, and I really just wanted to dance.”

On his upcoming journey to the World Finals, Klockwise shared, “I can’t think about it just yet. It might take some time (for it to sink in). But the opportunity is mine, so I will fully grab it. I will happily represent the dance community, and the entire Philippines in the World Finals.”

This year’s National Finals was powered by Xiaomi, 7-Eleven, and New Era as the official event partners. The crowd was treated to a car showcase by Stance Philippines and a truly pinoy-themed performance by Team Tera PH. Morobeats also performed a set, bringing the sounds of Manila’s streets to the stage. Homegrown dance icons, A-TEAM, and the legendary Philippine Allstars also fired up the Red Bull Dance Your Style National Finals stage, making the night even more unforgettable. 

Michael Perfecto / Red Bull Content Pool

With the Red Bull Dance Your Style Philippines officially wrapped up, all eyes now turn to the upcoming Red Bull Dance Your Style World Finals in India where the best of the best dancers from around the globe will face off in what promises to be an epic showdown. Klockwise is bound for Mumbai, India as the Philippines’ sole representative to go up against the best dancers from 50 other countries. 

The energy, the excitement, and the stakes will be even higher as fans await to see who will come out on top.

Ready for the ultimate street dance showdown? Keep an eye out on Red Bull Philippines’ social media for more updates. Support Klockwise and follow his journey as he makes his way to the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Finals, happening on November 9 at Dome, NSCI, in Mumbai, India. 

For more information and updates regarding this year’s season of Red Bull Dance Your Style, visit the official Red Bull website and the following social media pages (Facebook | Instagram | Tiktok )