Mega Sardines Launches 6th National Sardines Month with Aid for Typhoon-Hit Communities in Albay

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Mega Sardines, one of the top brands of Mega Prime Foods Inc. (MPFI), kicks off this year’s National Sardines Month with a heartfelt initiative to assist communities affected by Typhoon Kristine. The effort, which includes the distribution of hot meals to hardest-hit barangays, has reached over 1,500 individuals across various areas in Albay.

National Sardines Month highlights sardines as a staple source of nutrition for Filipino families, reinforcing Mega Sardines' commitment to accessible, quality food as the #1 sardines brand in the country. Through these efforts, the brand aims to uplift communities and show solidarity with those affected by natural disasters, underscoring its dedication to supporting Filipino health and well-being in meaningful ways.

Recognizing the urgent needs of families impacted by the typhoon, Mega Sardines, distributed by Mega Prime Foods Inc. (MPFI), has mobilized resources to provide essential food relief, including their nutritious and affordable sardine products, to help sustain these communities in recovery.

MPFI has extended support to 1,500 people in some of the hardest-hit areas in Albay. The aid covers 500 in Libon, 300 in Lapu-Lapu, Legaspi, and 700 in Taysan, Legaspi. Additionally, MPFI donated 2,000 Mega Sardines products through JCI Bicol to further assist typhoon-stricken families.

“As Filipinos come together to rebuild after Typhoon Kristine, Mega Prime Foods is here to help communities move forward,” said Mark Henry Camacho, Senior Brand Manager. “We understand the challenges Albay is facing, and we hope these resources provide a measure of relief as Bicolanos work toward recovery.”

Mega Prime Foods begins National Sardines Month with a focused effort to support communities impacted by Typhoon Kristine in Albay. The efforts included the provision of hot meals for Bgy. Lapu-Lapu.

Upcoming National Sardines Month Events Across the Country

Mega Sardines will also bring National Sardines Month initiatives to other parts of the country, including Cebu, Davao, Tuguegarao, and Metro Manila. Each event will be an opportunity to reinforce the brand’s dedication to Filipino communities and provide support and solidarity through practical assistance.

For more information about Mega Sardines and its products, visit megaprimefoods.com.ph or shop on its official stores in Shopee, Lazada and Tiktok Shop.

SM Development Corporation Celebrates 20th Anniversary

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SMDC@20. In celebration of its 20th anniversary, SMDC formally opens a 3day trade show at MOA Music Hall to showcase the vibrancy of its communities. At the ceremonial lock-and-key ceremony were: Marking C. Que, SMDC SVP and head of customer support; Gen. Bernard Yang of SPD NCR; Grace Evangeline M. Sta. Ana, SMDC EVP and head of core operations and product development; Sen. Richard Gordon, Red Cross chairman and CEO and Jessica Bianca T. Sy, SMDC VP and head of design, innovation and strategy. 


SM Development Corporation (SMDC) celebrates 20 years of excellence in real estate with a grand three-day trade show at the MOA Music Hall from November 22 to 24, 2024. This immersive event invites media to experience The Good Life in an SMDC community. Through a guided walkthrough of an SMDC property, guests explore its exceptional features – from the grand lobby and hotel-like lounges to the wide, open spaces, expansive amenities, commercial strips and the vibrant community that make SMDC living truly unique.

(L-R)Carlo Alampay, VP and Head of Regulatory Affairs (SMDC), Marking Que, SVP and Head of Customer Support (SMDC), Gen Bernard Yang (SPD NCR), Grace Evangeline Sta. Ana, EVP and Head of Core Operations and Project Development (SMDC), Jessica Bianca Sy, VP and Head of Design, Innovation and Strategy (SMDC) 

The event offers an exciting opportunity to experience the innovations, history, and future vision of SMDC through interactive walkthroughs, inspiring talks, star-studded performances, and exclusive deals.

This anniversary marks two decades of transforming the real estate landscape with sustainable and community-driven living solutions.

 Experience The Good Life at SMDC's trade show, Nov 22-24 at MOA Music Hall! 

SMDC unveiled a rebranding program to usher its 20th year anniversary

Jessica Sy, project director of SMDC and the daughter of SMDC Chairman Henry Sy, Jr, said in her speech during the program that SMDC will not rest on its laurels but continue to “innovate, to keep improving, and to make sure SMDC communities remain places where every Filipino can build a bright future.”

Jessica Bianca Sy, VP and head of design, innovation and strategy at SMDC

In the past 20 years, Sy said SMDC had not only the homes it built but also nurtured the communities and the lives it helped it had changed. “That’s what the good life is all about—creating spaces where people feel like they truly belong, where they can build their dreams. I hope you saw how important you all are in that process,” she said.

Sy said also paid tribute to the people who joined SMDC in building the dream homes of Filipinos.

“From the designers who craft spaces that inspire, to the property managers who make our communities feel warm and welcoming, to the support teams who work behind the scenes, and, of course, to the sellers and residents who bring these communities to life—you are the reason we are here today.”

Sy described the last 20 years of the SMDC as a collective effort and shared journed filled with the dedication, passion, and resilience of an incredible team. Further, she said the SMDC team didn’t just built homes to shelter people but provide venues where friendships bloom, where families thrive, and where neighbors become like family. “This is the true heart of SMDC, and it’s why we’re so proud of the homes and communities we’ve created. ”

Guests enjoy the lobby representing the grand lobby of an SMDC home. 

SMDC formally opens the 3day trade show at MOA Music Hall on Friday, Nov. 22, with SMDC executives and partners: Gen. Bernard Yang of SPD NCR; Marking C. Que, SMDC SVP for Customer Support; Grace Evangeline M. Sta. Ana, SMDC EVP and head of Core Operations and Product Development (4th from left); Jessica Bianca T. Sy, VP and head of Design, Innovation and Strategy (6th from left) and Sen. Richard Gordon, Red Cross chairman and CEO. 

Red Cross Chairman Richard Gordon being toured by SMDC's Grace Evangeline Sta. Ana, EVP and head of core operations and product development, and Jessica Bianca Sy, VP and head of design, innovation and strategy. 

Actress Isabel Oli-Prats enjoys a tour of the trade show

Actors Isabel Oli and Teddy Marquez join SMDC executives at the walkthrough during the opening of SMDC's 20th Anniversary Trade Show at the MOA Music Hall on Nov 22. 

SMDC at a Glance SM Development Corporation is the residential arm of SM Prime, one of Southeast Asia’s largest integrated property developers. Known as the "Home of The Good Guys," SMDC is dedicated to developing inclusive and sustainable communities that connect people to progress. Its residential projects are strategically located near SM malls, transport hubs, and key business districts, ensuring residents have convenient access to life's essentials. As a wholly owned subsidiary of SM Prime, SMDC integrates its developments with the broader SM ecosystem, enhancing the quality of life for its residents and supporting economic growth and urban connectivity. SMDC's commitment to sustainability is reflected in its focus on efficient land use, green spaces, and energy-efficient building practices, aimed at creating communities that are both livable and environmentally responsible.

SMDC has been transforming the Philippine real estate market since delivering its first residential development, Chateau Elysee in Paranaque, in 2004. With a focus on developing sustainable urban communities, SMDC’s properties combine modern living with resort-style amenities, creating spaces where residents live, work, and play.

Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and Justin of SB19 give back to local communities in Manila through “Season of Giving” campaign

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The initiative aims to engage the country in a fight to alleviate food insecurity

 

Sony Music Entertainment Philippines, in collaboration with Justin of SB19, have teamed up with Rise Against Hunger Philippines (RAHP) to provide aid to impoverished communities in Manila affected by the recent typhoon and economic challenges.

This initiative is part of Sony Music Group’s (SMG) global ‘Season of Giving’ campaign, where the company and its artists are paying it forward to the countries in which the international music label operates. The campaign embodies the label’s unwavering commitment to making a positive impact around the world, and while supporting communities where music is created and enjoyed.

On November 7, 2024, Christmas came early for the kids at Better World Tondo as Justin of SB19, the rising solo artist and member of SB19, visited the area for a day filled with exciting games, spectacular performances, and nutritious meals. The children were visibly delighted as their idol, serenaded them with his captivating version of Maroon 5’s “Sunday Morning,” before treating them to two more stunning performances—his solo hit “surreal” and SB19’s “Ikako.”

In addition to his performances, Justin of SB19 brought even more joy to the kids with interactive games like Bring Me, and even personally served their healthy menudo rice meals with papaya slices.

Justin of SB19 expressed happiness in taking part of the campaign, which is focused on providing much-needed food aid to local communities and offering a sense of joy and relief through entertainment. “I’ve been involved in several advocacies before, but working closely with Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and RAHP has somehow expanded my understanding of the power of using my platform for positive change. There was something incredibly fulfilling about seeing the children’s faces light up during my performance, and it was a special moment to personally serve them the food. This experience will always be a core memory for me, and I’m looking forward to being part of more initiatives like this in the future.”

“Justin of SB19 is incredibly warm, caring and generous with the children,” said Leni Renton, Program Lead at Rise Against Hunger Philippines. “They connected with him instantly, enjoying his performances and having a blast playing games together. This special experience, thanks to Sony Music, will remain a cherished memory for these kids for years to come. We are deeply grateful to Sony Music for their continued support and generosity.”

Renton also commended SMG’s Season of Giving initiative for not only providing the attendees with much-needed nourishment, but also for creating an unforgettable experience. She adds that Sony’s commitment to support Rise Against Hunger Philippines advocacies serves as a “powerful demonstration of their commitment to communities in need.”

“Beyond providing healthy meals, their involvement brings something truly special—an unforgettable moment of music and fun with the children,” Leni Renton shares. ‘Through this partnership, Sony Music not only nourishes their bodies but also inspires and uplifts their spirits by connecting them with aspiring artists who ignite their hopes and dreams.”

By supporting the feeding program and bringing live performances to the children, the international record label has created lasting memories and showed the importance of giving back to those who need it the most. Through this collaboration, Sony Music Group has shown how the power of music and kindness can make a meaningful impact.

Lalamove Addresses Fraud Concerns with Driver Facial Recognition and Government Support

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Lalamove Philippines has taken decisive action to tackle fraudulent activities amid reports of driver accounts being sold or shared. To assure customers of safe and reliable deliveries, the leading on-demand delivery platform is reinforcing security protocols while working closely with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT).

Facial Recognition Feature for Enhanced Security 

As part of its anti-fraud measures, Lalamove has introduced facial recognition verification feature within its Driver App to ensure that only authorized drivers can access the platform.

All partner drivers must verify their identity through a facial scan before accepting bookings, ensuring that only legitimate drivers handle deliveries. The feature reinforces driver accountability and works in tandem with other monitoring systems, including manual reviews and activity trend analysis.

Drivers with mismatched information are subject to routine monitoring and are added to a watchlist, which triggers further investigation to prevent potential misuse. Offenders identified through these measures will be permanently banned from the platform under Lalamove’s one-hit policy.

Zero Tolerance for Fraud 

With the new facial recognition feature in place, Lalamove’s stand is clear: selling or sharing driver accounts is strictly prohibited by the platform.

Lalamove Philippines Managing Director Djon Nacario emphasized, “Through our facial recognition feature, we can ensure that only authorized and verified partner drivers have access to the platform, ensuring a fair environment for all consumers. This initiative, with the support of DICT, reflects our zero-tolerance stance on fraudulent activities and our commitment to protecting both partner drivers and users.”

He also clarified that the feature complies with the Data Privacy Act of 2012, ensuring that the personal information of our partner drivers is handled securely while giving customers peace of mind.

Anti-Scam Tips for App Users

With the holiday season coming in, Lalamove encourages users to carefully and religiously double-check partner driver details—including name, photo, plate number, and vehicle information—before releasing items. If anything seems off, customers should report the issue immediately via Lalamove’s in-app Live Chat and reassign the order to another partner driver using the app’s "Find a New Driver" option.

“We deeply appreciate the trust and patience of our customers, especially the small businesses that rely on us daily,” Nacario added. “Our commitment remains strong and true – to providing a safe, reliable, and secure service to support livelihoods and keep deliveries running smoothly for the communities we serve.”

SAG1 Dragonboat Team Shines at 6th Guam International Dragonboat Race

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The SAG1 Dragonboat Team showcased their exceptional skill and teamwork during the 6th Guam International Dragon Boat Festival, held on November 16-17, 2024, at Matapang Beach in Tumon, Guam. The homegrown crew competed against teams from Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, and various local teams from Guam.

The two-day event brought fierce competition and camaraderie, with SAG1 delivering remarkable performances:

Day 1 (400m Races):

●      Mixed Standard: Gold

●      Open Small: Silver

Day 2 (200m Races):

●      Women's Small: Gold

●      Mixed Standard: Silver

●      Men’s Open Small: Bronze

●      Mixed Small: Bronze

These achievements highlight SAG1’s dedication, hardwork, and determination on the international stage. The team extends their gratitude to their families, supporters and sponsors and looks forward to more local and international races in the future.

For more information, follow their social media accounts:
https://www.instagram.com/sag1_ph/

https://www.facebook.com/SAG1team