Wadhwani Foundation and DOST Forge Strategic Partnership to Boost Entrepreneurship and Digital Innovation in the Philippines

Tweet

The Wadhwani Foundation and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) of the Philippines have formalized a significant partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed at DOST’s Central Office in Taguig City. This alliance, announced on the eve of the EmpowerEd 2024 Summit, underscores their joint commitment to driving entrepreneurship and digital transformation across the country.

From L to R: Maridon Sahagun, USEC for Scientific and Technical Studies; Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, Undersecretary for Regional Operations, DOST; Mary Rose Ofianga, Program Manager, WEN, Wadhwani Foundation; Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., DOST Secretary; Meetul Patel, President of Wadhwani Entrepreneurship and Government Digital Transformation; Cris Delgado Jr., Regional Director, WEN SEA Wadhwani Foundation; Sammy P. Malawan, Regional Director, DOST 12; Engr. Noel M. Ajoc, Regional Director, DOST - Caraga; and Rino Dominic Cabungcal - DOST Region VII Representative

Distinguished guests and partners representing the different colleges and universities of the Philippines. who have committed their support for Wadhwani Ignite.

EmpowerEd 2024 Summit and Launch of Wadhwani Ignite

The MOU signing set the stage for the EmpowerEd 2024 Summit held on November 2024, at the Lyceum of the Philippines University Manila. With the theme “Educate, Engage, Elevate the Next Gen of Entrepreneurs,” the summit brought together educators, policy-makers, entrepreneurs, and innovators to spotlight new initiatives and celebrate advances in entrepreneurship education.

A highlight of the event was the launch of Wadhwani Ignite, a program designed to equip young entrepreneurs with cutting-edge AI tools and support. Meetul Patel, President of Wadhwani Entrepreneurship and Government Digital Transformation, expressed his excitement about the partnership: “Our collaboration with DOST aligns with our mission to drive economic growth through entrepreneurship and digital innovation. This partnership lays the groundwork for Filipino entrepreneurs to play a key role in the nation’s future growth.”

Key Areas of Collaboration

The MOU outlines several strategic areas for joint action, including:

1. Entrepreneurship Capability Building: Workshops, mentorship, and capacity-building programs to empower aspiring and current entrepreneurs.

2. Digital Transformation for Smart Cities: Initiatives that bolster DOST’s Smart and Sustainable Cities program, fostering digital solutions and innovation hubs to benefit urban communities.

3. Enhancement of Technology Business Incubation (TBI) Programs: Training and resources for TBI managers, along with initiatives to engage students in entrepreneurial projects, supported by Genie AI, Wadhwani Foundation’s latest platform.

Statements from Leaders

Renato U. Solidum, Jr., Secretary of DOST, and Meetul Patel, President of Wadhwani Entrepreneurship and Government Digital Transformation, signed the MOU. Dr. Ajay Kela, President and CEO of the Wadhwani Foundation, emphasized the significance of the partnership: 

“This collaboration with DOST paves the way for a new era of entrepreneurial growth and opportunity for young Filipinos. We’re building capabilities to shape a brighter, more inclusive future.”

From L to R: Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., DOST Secretary; Meetul Patel, President of Wadhwani Entrepreneurship and Government Digital Transformation; and, Cris Delgado Jr., Regional Director, WEN SEA Wadhwani Foundation during the MOU Signing at the DOST HQ in Taguig City

Lucrecio Delgado, Jr., Regional Director of Wadhwani Foundation SEA, added, “Through Wadhwani Ignite and our shared vision with DOST, we aim to provide Filipino entrepreneurs with the tools and support needed to excel in the fast-evolving digital economy.”

---------------------------------------------------------

About the Wadhwani Foundation

The Wadhwani Foundation is a global non-profit dedicated to driving job creation and economic development through initiatives in skilling, entrepreneurship, government digital transformation, and research. Established by Silicon Valley entrepreneur Dr. Romesh Wadhwani, the Foundation leverages technology and a vast global network to democratize access to resources and improve livelihoods in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

About the Department of Science and Technology (DOST)

DOST is the leading agency in the Philippines for science and technology, coordinating research and innovation to promote sustainable growth and national development.

For more information, visit www.wadhwanifoundation.org

Ben&Ben’s Miguel Benjamin and Paolo Benjamin interviews Barry Jenkins, Lin-Manuel Miranda and the cast of Disney’s Mufasa: The Lion King

Tweet

Ben&Ben’s Miguel Benjamin and Paolo Benjamin recently had the privilege of interviewing the cast and director of Disney’s latest musical drama, Mufasa: The Lion King.

The interview sessions with the duo, including the teaser posted by Walt Disney, have amassed more than 21 million views so far

The two band vocalists from the popular Filipino band were asked by Disney Philippines to get up close and personal with some of the most notable figures behind the film, including director Barry Jenkins and composer Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Miguel and Paolo were able to interview Jenkins, who is known for his acclaimed works such as Moonlight and If Beale Street Could Talk. They also met Miranda, the award-winning composer behind the film’s music, who shared his creative process for making songs for a story as monumental as Mufasa: The Lion King.

Miranda offered a glimpse into his songwriting approach, explaining, “You just have to honor those impulses. Kind of like—you have these assignments, and you daydream, and you think about stuff, and you listen to stuff, until you have this sort of alchemy.” His words not only highlighted the magic behind the music but also underscored the collaborative spirit of the film.

For the Benjamin brothers, the opportunity was not just a professional milestone but a deeply personal one. Both twins grew up with a close bond that reflects the sibling dynamics explored in the movie.

In addition to speaking with the filmmakers, Miguel and Paolo interviewed the cast members, including Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and Tiffany Boone, who voice key characters in the film. The atmosphere was light-hearted and engaging, with Kelvin Harrison Jr. even prompting the duo to sing a few lines from their hit song “Leaves.” The impromptu performance left everyone in the room delighted.

The interview came at a busy time for Ben&Ben, who were in the middle of rehearsals for their sold-out concert, The Traveller Across Dimensions. However, when the opportunity to interview the Mufasa team came through, the duo didn’t hesitate. “We felt we could relate well to the theme of brotherhood portrayed in the film because of the fact that we’re twins and we grew up really close to each other, much like Mufasa and Taka,” shared Miguel Benjamin. “Also, the fact that the film involved such great storytellers in it, both in film and music, made it an opportunity of a lifetime.”

Paolo echoed his brother’s sentiments, reflecting on the honor of interviewing the Mufasa team and representing the Philippines. “We felt that representing our country in a special interview such as this was a big task to fulfill, but we tried to give it our best by coming up with questions that would allow the cast and the directors the freedom to be just themselves while sharing more about the film, their insights, and their memorable experiences working on it. What we noticed the most, though, is how bonded the entire team behind the film is. It’s like they’re family already.”

The interview sessions quickly became a viral sensation, amassing over 5 million views across social media platforms in less than a day. This does not include the interview teaser with Miguel and Paolo six days ago on Walt Disney’s Facebook page, which has already garnered nearly 16 million views to date.

Mufasa: The Lion King blends live-action filmmaking techniques with photorealistic computer-generated imagery. Directed by Barry Jenkins, produced by Adele Romanski and Mark Ceryak, and executive produced by Peter Tobyansen, the film promises to captivate audiences with its heartfelt storytelling and unforgettable soundtrack, featuring songs by Lin-Manuel Miranda. As the holiday season approaches, Mufasa: The Lion King is sure to be a cinematic experience to remember.

Mufasa: The Lion King is out now in all Philippine cinemas nationwide via Walt Disney Pictures.

A gift that grows a lifetime: Teach your kids financial freedom this Christmas

Tweet

CHRISTMAS is a season for giving, and every parent wants to make it magical for their kids. This year, instead of gifting them with toys or gadgets that could bring momentary joy, why not give them something that will last a lifetime?

Teach your kids financial freedom this Christmas - - - Christine Caberte 

Safer than a piggy bank

For Christine Caberte, nothing makes a mother prouder than seeing her kid disciplined with money, even at a young age. Christine just opened a bank account for her six-year-old son.

"I've seen my son save money in his piggy bank for some time, but I wanted something more secure. That's why I decided to open a BDO Junior Savers account for him," Christine explains. "With a bank, I know his money is intact and safe, unlike an alkansya that can be opened anytime."

Securing her son’s future. Christine Caberte knows the importance of establishing a foundation for financial independence for her son by opening a BDO Junior Savers account for him during the BDO Fiesta in Bacolod.

Christine, a former overseas Filipino planning to return to work abroad, feels peace of mind knowing that when she starts sending remittances to her son's account, his savings will grow securely.

"It’s comforting to know he now has a bank account that’s his alone,” she shares. “I can send money for his daily expenses and savings separately. His Junior Savers account is safe, nobody can touch it; it’s his to grow."

Starting 'em young

Parents like Christine can easily open a Junior Savers account at any nearby branch, starting from their child's birth. As the deposit reaches P2,000, it will earn interest and Rewards Peso Points.

It comes with a Special Design Passbook as an additional means to monitor a child’s savings. When the kid turns seven, he or she will receive a Junior Savers Debit card.

This Christmas, secure your children’s future by opening a BDO Junior Savers account. It's more than a bank account; it's a foundation for teaching them financial independence and responsibility.

With an initial deposit of only P100, Junior Savers helps kids develop a habit of saving and teaches them to handle their own money at a young age. It is affordable and ideal for most families who want to nurture sound financial habits.

Imagine your kids saving the aguinaldo they will receive this Christmas. Instead of spending money on new toys or gadgets, they can deposit it into their Junior Savers account. As they watch their savings grow, they will learn that achieving their life goals starts with discipline, patience, and a commitment to saving.

W Express, KVAC to Celebrate a Successful Year with Exciting New offerings for 2025

Tweet

Enjoy exclusive discounts, win exciting prizes, and experience seamless

visa processing for your next trip to South Korea with W Express!

As the year ends, W Express, the sole accredited courier service partner of the Korea Visa Application Center (KVAC), reflects on a successful 2024 filled with milestones and customer satisfaction.

To celebrate this success and welcome the New Year, W Express is unveiling new and exciting perks for Filipino travelers gearing up for their South Korea adventures.

Reduced Family/Group Application Fees – starting January 2025, enjoy discounted rates—only Php 1,000 for the primary applicant and Php 500 for succeeding applicants.

New Year Raffle Promo – every Korean tourist visa applicant via W Express gets a chance to win an elegant American Tourister luggage, perfect for their travel needs.

Over the past year, W Express has consistently delivered exceptional service that has garnered glowing reviews:

• “It was very convenient and easy. Everyone was helpful. The helpline was responsive. Very good!

• “Very smooth and fast process!”

• “It was time-efficient and convenient for those who live in the province, like me. I’m thankful for this opportunity.”

With its unparalleled convenience, reliability, W Express is the premier choice for effortless and efficient South Korea tourist visa processing. “We are proud of the positive impact we have made this year. This strengthens our resolve to further simplify travel preparations for Filipinos,” said Dawn Feliciano, Chairman and President of W Express. “With our nationwide coverage and new offerings, we look forward to making 2025 an even better year for our customers.”

Ahn Kyu Suk, Managing Director of KVAC, also emphasized the significance of the partnership. “Our collaboration with W Express ensures that visa applicants receive the highest quality of service, making their travel preparations stress-free and efficient. These new initiatives further highlight our shared commitment to customer satisfaction.”

As the sole accredited courier service partner for KVAC, W Express continues to streamline the Korean tourist visa application process through its secure and reliable courier services, enabling applicants to focus on their travel plans without the hassle.

Customers are invited to visit the website https://www.wwwexpress.com.ph/ , plus like and subscribe to W Express’ official Facebook and Instagram pages @wexpressph to discover the brand’s latest news and offerings. For inquiries, customers may call the hotline at (02) 8879-8888, message on Facebook Messenger, or visit any W Express branch.

Make your 2025 South Korea adventure a reality with W Express— your partner for stress-free post-holiday travel!

#WExpress #KVAC

BDO Foundation rehabilitates several RHUs in Bohol province to cap 2024

Tweet

In line with its advocacy to enable rural health units (RHUs) across the country to deliver better primary health care services, BDO Foundation turned over five rehabilitated health centers in Bohol for the benefit of more than 100,000 Boholanos.

The newly renovated RHUs are Candijay Primary Care Facility, Dimiao Primary Care Facility, Mabini Primary Care Facility, Cortes Primary Care Facility and Duero Rural Health Unit. Supported by local government leaders and municipal health officers, the foundation renovated the health centers’ interiors and exteriors, ensuring that the spaces are conducive for healing and comfortable for both health workers and patients.

Rural health unit rehabilitation. Newly rehabilitated RHUs feature patient-centric interiors and exteriors to help health workers deliver better services to the community.

“We hope that this humble contribution of BDO Foundation to the communities will help the local government units (LGUs) and health workers improve their capability in delivering basic health services to their constituents,” shared BDO Foundation president Mario Deriquito.

BDO Foundation continues to fulfill its advocacy to rehabilitate RHUs to help strengthen the primary healthcare delivery system at the grassroots level. Since the start of the program in 2012, the foundation has supported the capacity of various LGUs in making primary healthcare more accessible to communities.

In his message to the community at the turn over of their newly rehabilitated health center, Dimiao municipal health officer Dr. Lloyd Lyle Ravidas said, “We are grateful to BDO, BDO Network Bank and BDO Foundation for the help that they’ve given to our community. You have not just given us a beautiful building, but also a dignified health facility to better serve the people.”

BDO Foundation has renovated 23 RHUs in Bohol alone. Overall, the organization has rehabilitated 187 health centers nationwide.